NEWSLETTER


March 2021
Eugenics and Science Timeline 1859 - Present Day
Science history is filled with discoveries, innovations and amazing pioneers. Yet, there is also a darker side to science history that is important to understand and reflect upon. Did you know that a few notable scientists and academics applied an inaccurate and prejudicial understanding to support their racist claims? Learn about the emergence of eugenics in Britain, and scroll through a new timeline about some of the key historical events that led to the development of eugenics in the United States. A bibliography of resources is included. Share this informative, science history resource with your classroom today.

Human Heredity & Health (H3Africa) DNA Day Webinars - A Global Celebration!
Every year DNA Day is celebrated on or around April 25. This year, DNA Day is going global by hosting two webinars with researchers from the Human Heredity & Health (H3Africa) Initiative. On March 25 at 8 a.m. EDT, Dr. Cathrine Scheepers, a Senior Medical Scientist in the Centre for HIV and STIs at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases in South Africa, and an H3Africa Co-investigator will be presenting “Do You Know You Have 10 Billion Different Antibodies in Your Body?” This will be followed by the webinar “Genomic Characterization and Surveillance of Microbial Threats in West Africa” by Paul Oluniyi, a Ph.D. Research Fellow at the African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University in Nigeria, on April 8 at 11 a.m. EDT. Both webinars will include a moderated Q&A following the presentations. These events are free and open to all, and registration is required.

Bold Predictions for Human Genomics by 2030 from the National Human Genome Research Institute
The National Human Genome Research Institute has made 10 bold predictions for human genomics by 2030 as part of its recent release of its "Strategic Vision for Improving Human Health at the Forefront of Genomics.” The inspirational and aspirational predictions are highlighted in a stunning video narrated by the acclaimed author and physician, Siddhartha Mukherjee. One of the bold predictions is that student projects involving human genomic data will be regularly featured at school science fairs. This may be the inspiration your students need for the next school science fair!

Data Science for Science Teachers Boot Camp
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Data Science Strategy (ODSS) is hosting a virtual boot camp July 12-16, 2021. Data Science for Science Teachers Boot Camp is an intensive research training course designed specifically for STEM educators working with students in underserved communities. The boot camp will enable educators to learn data science techniques and facilitate integration of this highly desired, cutting-edge skill set in their coursework. Applicants should be U.S.-based, STEM educators working with high school or post-secondary students who are considered underserved. Applications are due April 9, 2021.

Is DNA Ancestry? Finding Your Roots - A Free Online Screening and Discussion
Join NET, Nebraska’s PBS & NPR Stations, as they explore the latest developments in genetic medicine and what creates identity. Using excerpts from the recent documentary, “The Gene: An Intimate History,” and season 7 of Henry Louis Gates Jr.’s acclaimed series “Finding Your Roots,” NET will seek to demystify the science behind genetics and ancestry. On Thursday, March 18, 2021 at 4 p.m. CST, the online event “Is DNA Ancestry? Personal Genetics and Cultural Heritage” will discuss how ancestry testing works, and the differences between genetic ancestry and cultural heritage. Registration for this free event is required.


This month's featured article in
Genomics: Insights



Author: Karla Claudio, Ph.D.



Give Us Feedback
We would like to hear from you! Share feedback or ideas.

STAY CONNECTED