The United Arab Emirates Genetic Diseases Association (UAEGDA) is an organization based in Dubai that aims to raise awareness and understanding of genetic disorders that are a major health concern in the UAE and the Gulf Region. Such diseases include inherited anaemias (such as sickle cell disease and thalassemia) that the MRC Molecular Haematology Unit has worked on for over 30 years.
On 15th September, the UAEGDA held its 5th International Genetic Diseases Conference, at which the MRC WIMM was presented with the International Award for Most Innovative Research Institution, for ‘significant contributions to the understanding of genetic diseases and alleviation of human suffering’. Prof. Ahmed Ahmed, an MRC WIMM Senior Fellow, was present at the ceremony to receive the prize on behalf of the Institute (pictured).
The award reflects the ongoing work of scientists at the MRC WIMM, who continue to investigate the molecular basis of inherited anaemias, and also many other clinically relevant diseases. International collaborations with other research institutes and hospitals are critical to ensuring that the Institute remains at the forefront of translational medicine.
The United Arab Emirates Genetic Diseases Association (UAEGDA) is an organization based in Dubai that aims to raise awareness and understanding of genetic disorders that are a major health concern in the UAE and the Gulf Region. Such diseases include inherited anaemias (such as sickle cell disease and thalassemia) that the MRC Molecular Haematology Unit has worked on for over 30 years.
On 15th September, the UAEGDA held its 5th International Genetic Diseases Conference, at which the MRC WIMM was presented with the International Award for Most Innovative Research Institution, for ‘significant contributions to the understanding of genetic diseases and alleviation of human suffering’. Prof. Ahmed Ahmed, an MRC WIMM Senior Fellow, was present at the ceremony to receive the prize on behalf of the Institute (pictured).
The award reflects the ongoing work of scientists at the MRC WIMM, who continue to investigate the molecular basis of inherited anaemias, and also many other clinically relevant diseases. International collaborations with other research institutes and hospitals are critical to ensuring that the Institute remains at the forefront of translational medicine.
Professor Doug Higgs, Director of the Institute and Director of the MRC Molecular Haematology Unit, said: "All of the researchers at the MRC WIMM were delighted to receive this award, which was made to the Institute rather than to an individual. It highlights the MRC WIMM's very strong outreach programmes that are designed to foster educational interchanges, training opportunities and the development of scientific collaborations with our colleagues overseas."
