ISLAMABAD – Genomics Research Lab (GRL), Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology recently organized a “Hands-On Training Workshop on Cryopreservation Techniques” for the graduate students of the department in collaboration with National Training Research Laboratories, Pakistan and Alpha Genomics at Female campus of International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI).
Mr. Saqib Rafique, resource person of the workshop, explained the principles of cryopreservation and its applications. Cryopreservation is the process of freezing biological material at extreme temperatures; most common -196 °C/-321 °F in liquid nitrogen (N2). The event included a brief overview on thermal energy, energy conservations, cold storage, and preservation, types of temperature and application, stem cell banking, application of cold temperatures. The introductory session was followed by Hands-On training practical session in the Genomics Research Lab that taught participants how to use liquid nitrogen to preserve different samples.
Dr. Masoom Yasinzai, Rector IIUI, was the Chief Guest of this event. At the concluding session of the workshop, while addressing the participants of the workshop, he emphasized greatly the importance of the learning of the modern lab techniques for the research. He shared his experience of research with the students. Dr. Arshad Zia, Dean FBAS appreciated the efforts of the department for frequently organizing seminars and workshops. Dr. Asma Gul, Chairperson of the department thanked the resource persons and organizers of the workshop, Dr. Shaheen Shahzad, Dr. Fareeha Ambreen and Ms. Mehrosh Khalid for their untiring and dedicated effort for the students and providing the learning opportunity to them at the campus. At the end of the program, shields and certificates were awarded to the resource persons, participants and organizers.
