Journalists meet to discuss different aspects of biotechnology and its impact on society

More than 90 journalists from all over the world meet in Heidelberg, today, for the 4th Alumni Conference of the International Journalists’ Programmes (IJP). In keynote-speeches, panel discussions and excursions participants will discover different aspects of biotechnology and its impact on society. The conference is hosted by the Biotechnology Cluster Rhine-Neckar (BioRN) – one of the leading life science clusters in Europe.

From academia, economy and politics, renowned representatives such as nobel laureate Prof. Dr. Werner Arber have confirmed to participate. Topics include the future perspective of stem cell research, the global challenge of HIV and AIDS, effects of the financial crisis on biotech innovation, the emergence of world-class biotech clusters in Europe, as well as personalized medicine as a major driver of change in the world’s health economy.

“We are very pleased about the increasing interest of journalists in biotechnology and we appreciate the opportunity to provide new insights into this important future technology”, said Dr. Christian Tidona, Managing Director of the BioRN Cluster Management GmbH. ”Biotechnology affects a broad range of topics. By discussing economic, ethic and scientific aspects of biotechnology, IJP is proud to contribute to a better coverage”, emphasized Vassilios Theodossiou, Director IJP.