Bio-AI Bridge: Global Biotech Summit Sparks Science Synergy

An international conference focusing on the integrated future of biotechnology, genomics, and artificial intelligence-based research was held on Saturday, April 25, at the Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Building of University of Dhaka. The event was organized by the Network of Young Biotechnologists of Bangladesh and served as a significant global platform for empowering young scientists, fostering innovation, and enhancing research-based skills.

The day-long program featured plenary sessions, policy dialogues, and a range of discussions. Key topics included microbial genomics, human genetics, infectious diseases, precision medicine, and AI-driven biotechnology. International researchers and experts from countries such as Australia, Korea, and China participated, transforming the conference into a multinational platform for knowledge exchange and research collaboration. Approximately 750 participants—including students, researchers, young faculty members, and entrepreneurs—from 29 universities, research institutions, and startups across the country took part in the event.

Professor Dr. Sayema Haque Bidisha, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Dhaka attended the inaugural session as the chief guest. In her remarks, she emphasized that biotechnology is indispensable for keeping pace with the modern century, underscoring the urgent need for focused attention in this sector. Special guests included Dr. Samina Ahmed, Chairman of the Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, and Sadman Shahriar Hasan, Director of Aristopharma. All speakers highlighted the critical importance of biotechnology.

In a special policy talk addressing the challenges and prospects of Bangladesh’s biotechnology sector, the keynote was delivered by Professor Dr. Adnan Mannan of the Department of Genetic Engineering at Chittagong University. The session was moderated by Professor Dr. Mushtak Ibn Ayub and Professor Dr. Mahbubur Rashid from the Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology at the University of Dhaka.

The conference environment remained vibrant throughout the day with diverse biotechnology-related activities. These included research paper exhibitions, thesis presentations, poster sessions, a business idea contest, a photography competition, and biotechnology-focused video screenings, all of which saw enthusiastic participation.

At the closing session, the chief guest was Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo. Highlighting the importance of biotechnology, he outlined various business plans in the sector and expressed willingness to provide financial support for their implementation. Special guests included Md. Anwar Hossain, Secretary of the Ministry of Science and Technology; Professor Dr. Anwarul Azim Akhand, Vice Chancellor of Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University; Professor Dr. Abdus Salam, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) of the University of Dhaka; and Professor Dr. S. M. Abdul Awal, Principal Coordinator on SDG Affairs at the Prime Minister’s Office. The session was chaired by Professor Dr. Sagir Ahmed, Director General of the National Institute of Biotechnology. All speakers expressed strong commitment to advancing biotechnology and addressing existing disparities within the sector.

For their contributions to research, the Award of Excellence was presented to young biotechnologists Dr. Md. Mahbub Hasan, Dr. Shipon Das Gupta, Sejan Rahman, Md. Arif Khan, Ujjal Hossain, Dr. Russell Das, Dr. Saeed Anwar, Dr. Mir Mubashir Khalid, and Dr. Jannatul Ferdous Papri. The Best Student awards were received by Fariha Ahmed Raisa, Yasin Rahman, Muhaiminur Rahman, Tahia Akter Tanmi, and Mamunuzzaman.

Organizers believe the conference has opened new research horizons in Bangladesh’s biotechnology sector and will play a crucial role in positioning the country as an emerging global biotech hub through genomics and AI-driven bio-innovation.

DBTech/MIA/MUIM/OR