Page 73 - Plant Canada 2024 Proceeding

PLANT CANADA 2024

WORKSHOP #4

Bioinformatics 101: Your first steps into the world of ‘omics’ data analysis
July 9, 2024, from 11:15 am–1:00 pm in the Millennium Suite

Join us to discuss the basic bioinformatics skills researchers need to begin working in ‘omics’.
The workshop will come in two parts. In the first, we will provide a hands-on training that
showcases basic command-line coding that will illustrate the power of BASH for data handling
and processing of immensely large omics datasets. In the second part we will discuss RNA-seq,
the various steps involved and considerations when setting up your first RNA-seq experiment.
Ultimately, this workshop is intended to be a first introduction to bioinformatics and as a forum to
ask any questions you may have if you intend to have bioinformatics as part of your future
research. For Mac/Linux users, you are ready to start command-line tomorrow! For
PC/Windows users, consider downloading ‘MobaXterm’ before attendance so that you are ready
for working in a Unix environment (https://mobaxterm.mobatek.net/)!

WORKSHOP #5

A brief overview of the gene editing landscape in Canada
July 9, 2024, from 11:15 am–1:00 pm in the Presentation Theatre

Moderator: Dominique Michaud (Laval U)
Panelists: Stacy Singer (AAFC), Hannah Clouthier (CFIA), Jennifer Hubert (CropLife Canada),
Steve Webb (GIFS), Pankaj Bhowmik (NRC)

Plant Biotechnology is at the forefront of scientific innovation in Canada, harnessing diverse
tools and technologies to enhance plant genetics and yield products of agricultural,
environmental or industrial value. The Plant Biotechnology sector significantly contributes to
Canada’s economy, providing 15,000 jobs and over $2 billion to the GDP each year. Beyond
scientific and economic prowess, its influence also permeates regulatory frameworks and
societal perspectives, shaping its impact on society, the economy and the environment. As a
trailblazer in the realm of Plant Biotechnology, Canada is now witnessing a compelling chapter
in its scientific narrative, strongly influenced by evolving guidelines amidst the rapid
development of genome editing technologies and the adoption of gene-edited crops. Please join
us for an open discussion about the gene editing landscape in Canada. Different aspects of the
question will be addressed by the panelists, from the basic concepts of gene editing to the
regulation, IP protection and commercialization of gene-edited crops and products.

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