Functional Genomics 2015

First Annual Functional Genomics Symposium
Dates: 13–14 December 2015
Location: Doha, Qatar
Hosted by: Sidra Medicine

Overview

Functional Genomics 2015 marked Qatar’s first symposium dedicated to functional genomics and genomic medicine. Hosted by Sidra Medicine, the event brought together more than 350 participants, including leading international experts, regional researchers, clinicians, and healthcare leaders.

The symposium was established to share advances in genome science and explore how large-scale sequencing and functional genomics can be translated into precision medicine solutions. The meeting laid the foundation for what would become the annual Precision Medicine & Functional Genomics (PMFG) conference series.

Functional genomics aims to understand the complex relationship between genotype and phenotype at a genome-wide scale. Through this inaugural event, Sidra Medicine reinforced its commitment to building local and regional research capacity and advancing personalized healthcare in Qatar.

Scientific Focus

The 2015 symposium centered on the clinical and translational implementation of genomics, with emphasis on:

• Whole genome sequencing (WGS) and large-scale genomic initiatives
• The launch and progress of the Qatar Genome Project (QGP)
• Cancer genomics and women’s personalized medicine
• Gene discovery and emerging gene therapy approaches
• Ethical perspectives on genomic medicine
• Best practices from international genome programs

The program highlighted how genomic data can inform diagnosis, risk prediction, and therapeutic development.

Program Highlights

Key milestones and presentations included:

• Announcement of the completion of the first 1,000 whole genome sequences under the Qatar Genome Project pilot phase
• Plans to expand sequencing to 3,000 WGS samples to establish the first draft of a Qatari reference genome
• International case studies from national genome programs in England, Iceland, and the Netherlands
• Clinical perspectives on intrauterine molecular therapies and genomic medicine expansion in hospitals
• Discussions on ethical and societal implications of genomic research

The symposium concluded with an Abstract Award Ceremony recognizing outstanding research contributions.

Learning Objectives

At the end of the conference, participants were able to:

• Describe the principles and goals of functional genomics
• Explain the objectives of the Qatar Genome Project pilot phase
• Identify how genome-wide studies contribute to precision medicine
• Recognize emerging gene therapy and translational research strategies
• Discuss ethical considerations in genomic implementation

Target Audience

The symposium was designed for:

• Physicians and clinical specialists
• Genomic and translational researchers
• Laboratory scientists and bioinformaticians
• Healthcare policymakers
• Academic faculty and trainees

Impact and Legacy

Functional Genomics 2015 established Qatar’s first national forum dedicated to genomics and precision medicine. It marked a pivotal step toward creating a Qatari reference genome and integrating genomic research into clinical care.

The success of the inaugural symposium led to the launch of an annual conference series, positioning Sidra Medicine as a regional leader in precision medicine and genomic innovation.