Genomics & AI Converge: Future Biotech Summit Sets Smart Science Stage

Marking International DNA Day on 25 April, the “Future Biotech Summit” and the “6th International Young Biotechnologists Congress 2026” has been held at the Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Building of University of Dhaka. The congress will feature plenary sessions, policy dialogues, research presentations, poster exhibitions, and inter-university competitions. Key discussion topics include microbial genomics, human genetics, infectious disease science, precision medicine, and AI-driven biotechnology. With participation from international experts, including those from China, organizers expect the event to evolve into a global scientific platform.

Organized by the Network of Young Biotechnologists of Bangladesh (NYBB) under the theme “Omics and AI 2026,” the congress will highlight the integrated potential of biotechnology and artificial intelligence.

With active presence across 29 universities in the country and a strong alumni network, NYBB has long served as a platform for empowering young scientists, fostering innovation, and facilitating knowledge exchange. Approximately 450 participants—including students, researchers, young faculty members, and entrepreneurs attended the event. Participants joined from various universities, research institutions, and startups across the country. Organizers believe this participation will further energize knowledge exchange, innovation, and policy dialogue.

The opening session was attended by Professor Dr. Sayma Haque Bidisha, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Dhaka, as the chief guest. Special guests will include Dr. Samina Ahmed, Chairman of the Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR); Professor Dr. Md. Zahid Raihan, Additional Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services; and Sadman Shahriar Hasan, Director of Aristopharma.

The closing session is expected to be attended by Abdul Awwal Mintoo, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, as the chief guest. Special guests will include Secretary of the Ministry of Science and Technology Md. Anwar Hossain; Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) of the University of Dhaka Professor Dr. Abdus Salam; and Principal Coordinator for SDG Affairs at the Prime Minister’s Office Professor Dr. S. M. Abdul Auwal. The session will be chaired by Professor Dr. Md. Chagir Ahmed, Director of the National Institute of Biotechnology.

Organizers believe that this congress is not merely a scientific conference but will serve as a significant milestone in advancing Bangladesh’s biotechnology sector. In addition to creating opportunities for young scientists to engage in internationally standard research and collaboration, it is expected to help position Bangladesh as an emerging hub for genomics and AI-based biotechnology.

DBTech/MIA/EK/OR