The College of Arts and Sciences at Qatar University (QU) concluded the 17th edition of the Life Sciences Symposium, held under the theme “Exploring Biotechnology for a Sustainable Circular BioEconomy." Sponsored by Qatar National Bank (QNB), Intertrade Technical Supplies, and MedTech Corporation, this annual event brought together leading scientists and experts from Qatar and abroad. It served as a pivotal platform to enhance Qatar's position as a hub for scientific research and innovation, with a special focus this year on the role of biotechnologies in achieving economic and environmental sustainability.
This year's forum aimed to shed light on the importance of a sustainable circular economy in Qatar, with a focus on critical sectors such as the environment, agriculture, food, and marine ecosystems. It explored opportunities to foster research-based and applied entrepreneurship in biotechnology, including technology development and transfer, startup creation, and the role of the industrial sector. Key topics discussed included agricultural and food biotechnology, bioremediation, bioenergy sources, marine biotechnology and aquaculture, entrepreneurship for building a circular bio-economy, and the development and transfer of biotechnologies. The event also featured a dedicated panel discussion for sharing insights and experiences in these fields.
Prof. Mohammed Al-Ghouti, Acting Head of the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences at the College of Arts and Sciences, QU, emphasized the importance of the symposium, stating, “This conference reflects a long journey of academic and research excellence. Over the past 16 editions, we have highlighted critical topics such as ecological diversity, marine plants like mangroves, and chronic diseases. The 17th edition marks a significant step in showcasing the role of biotechnologies in sustainability, particularly in building a circular economy based on resource reuse and transforming waste into value-added resources."
Prof. Al-Ghouti added, “Through this platform, we strive to connect academics, experts, and industrialists in a comprehensive dialogue. This year, we are showcasing real-world models for transitioning from academic research to industrial applications by featuring prominent speakers from diverse sectors, including representatives from global companies like ExxonMobil, alongside close collaboration with leading research centers within the university. This symposium is not just a scientific event; it's a milestone for fostering collaboration between academia and industry."
He further highlighted, “This event underscores QU's pioneering role in supporting advanced research addressing vital issues. We go beyond theoretical discussions to focus on delivering practical solutions that meet community needs and contribute to achieving Qatar National Vision 2030 in sustainable development."
Dr. Fatima Al-Khayat, Associate Dean for Sciences and Applied Sciences at the College of Arts and Sciences, praised the Symposium's critical role in advancing scientific research, stating, “This annual event serves as a vital platform for exchanging ideas and expertise. We are committed to attracting leading scientists from around the world to share the latest developments in life sciences. This year, we emphasize the importance of biotechnologies in building a sustainable economy, a topic that directly addresses our pressing environmental challenges and economic prosperity."
Dr. Al-Khayat added, “The symposium provides an exceptional opportunity for students from all academic levels to actively participate, whether by presenting research papers or competing in the scientific poster competition, which aims to encourage young research talent. This event is not only a chance to learn but also a platform to shine and excel, with top-performing students receiving valuable awards."
The symposium featured extensive participation from international experts, including renowned scientists from South Korea, the United Kingdom, France, and Oman, alongside local speakers from the Ministry of Environment and national research centers. The program included diverse sessions covering key topics such as agricultural and food biotechnology, bioremediation, aquaculture, and the role of entrepreneurship in creating a circular bio-economy.