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Nowgen Schools Genomics Programme

Narrowing the gap between genomics research and classroom genetics

Modern genetics promises much in relation to our health. The Nowgen Schools Genomics Programme is designed to equip young people to assess the real potential of genomics and how best to make informed decisions about future healthcare.

Current research in human genomics has great potential for sparking interest among students, yet it is not prominent in the school curriculum. The Nowgen Schools Genomics Programme aims to redress that situation.

Emerging knowledge of genetics in medicine has extended beyond rare conditions to include common diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. Large scale genetic association research, such as case control studies, help tease out the contribution genes make to disease. These studies raise many questions, some scientific, some ethical and some political, yet there is currently comparatively little opportunity for school-aged students to consider them.

By working with key players in the scientific and education communities, Nowgen’s Schools Genomics Programme will embed contemporary research into school science and enliven students’ experience. We intend to support teachers and their students through:

  • exploring genetic and lifestyle contributions to disease;
  • considering the methodological challenges these studies require;
  • examining the social and ethical challenges to society of setting up the studies;
  • exploring the potential impact of data arising from these studies.

We are working through three broad aproaches: