Precision Medicine & Functional Genomics 2021 (PMFG21)

Dates: December 2021
Post-Conference Virtual Satellite Symposium: 6 December 2021
Format: Fully Virtual
CME/CPD: Accredited Group Learning Activity (12 CME hours)

Overview

Precision Medicine & Functional Genomics 2021 (PMFG21) marked the sixth edition of Sidra Medicine’s flagship precision medicine conference. Held in a fully virtual format due to global public health considerations, PMFG21 brought together internationally recognized researchers, clinicians, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to explore advances in genomic science and its clinical translation.

Despite being delivered online, PMFG21 maintained the high scientific standards and international engagement that define the PMFG series. The conference focused on translating genomic discoveries into practical precision medicine solutions, reinforcing Sidra Medicine’s commitment to advancing healthcare innovation in Qatar and the region.

Conference Themes

PMFG21 was organized around four parallel thematic tracks:

Future of Pediatric Genomic Medicine – Advances in genomic diagnostics and clinical applications for children.
Large-Scale Genomes & Data – Translating genomic discovery into population health solutions.
Precision Care in Maternal & Child Health – Integrating genomics into reproductive, perinatal, and pediatric healthcare.
Innovative Therapies in Precision Medicine – Emerging gene-based and targeted therapeutic strategies.

These tracks reflected Sidra Medicine’s translational research priorities and the expanding role of genomics in maternal and pediatric care.

Program Highlights

PMFG21 featured live-streamed plenary lectures, thematic scientific sessions, and interactive discussions delivered through a dedicated virtual platform.

Scientific Sessions

Sessions explored:

Pediatric genomic implementation
National and international genome programs
Clinical integration of large-scale genomic data
Advances in innovative therapeutic approaches
Translational strategies linking discovery science to patient care

Virtual Satellite Symposium

A post-conference Virtual Satellite Symposium titled “Unlocking the Full Potential of Precision Medicine” addressed logistical, clinical, and policy challenges related to the implementation and equitable distribution of advanced therapies. The symposium fostered discussion on overcoming barriers to precision medicine adoption within healthcare systems.

The virtual platform enabled participants to attend live sessions and access recorded materials, ensuring continued engagement and knowledge dissemination.

Distinguished Speakers

PMFG21 welcomed leading international experts in genomics, translational research, and clinical precision medicine from prominent institutions worldwide. Sidra Medicine faculty and regional collaborators also presented research initiatives emerging from Qatar’s growing precision medicine ecosystem.

The conference continued to strengthen international collaboration and interdisciplinary dialogue, even within a virtual environment.

Learning Objectives & Accreditation

At the conclusion of PMFG21, participants were able to:

Describe advances in pediatric genomic medicine and clinical implementation.
Evaluate strategies for integrating large-scale genomic data into healthcare systems.
Discuss translational approaches in maternal and child precision care.
Identify innovative therapeutic developments in precision medicine.
Examine implementation challenges related to advanced genomic therapies.

PMFG21 was accredited as a Group Learning Activity and provided 12 CME hours in accordance with national accreditation standards.

Scientific Impact

PMFG21 demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of the precision medicine community during a period of global disruption. By successfully delivering a high-quality virtual scientific program, the conference sustained international collaboration, knowledge exchange, and momentum in genomic medicine research.

Through continued scientific engagement and innovation, PMFG21 reinforced Sidra Medicine’s leadership in precision medicine and its commitment to improving healthcare outcomes through genomic discovery and translation.