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Seminar on the prospects and possibilities of Biotechnology and Microbiology in Bangladesh

BRAC University Natural Science Club (BUNSC) organised a seminar on 'The Prospects and Possibilities of Biotechnology and Microbiology in Bangladesh” in December. Dr M Anwar Hossain, Professor, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology was the main speaker in at the event. The objective was to spread interest regarding the quest for life science in the young minds of BRAC University. Dr Hossain delivered his speech along with a presentation on the basics of Biotechnology and Microbiology followed by the applications of these from ancient times to the present time. Starting with the production of vinegar, alcohol and cheese, which are some early products made by fermentation technology with different microorganisms, he explained the recent advancements including gene therapy, cloning and systems biological approaches. It was emphasised that life science research needs multidisciplinary approach to flourish its latest branches by combining physics, chemistry, mathematics, computer science together. With the extensive use of biotechnology and microbiology in different sectors, we can make our life easier, for example these can solve the problems regarding food, fuel, environment and many more. Last but not least, he inspired the students by quoting Bill Clinton and Stephen Hawking saying that this is the century of biology. With the discovery of DNA in 1953 and then with the discovery of restriction enzymes in the early 70's, biotechnology and microbiology have progressed with a tremendous speed in research which indeed can be used for the betterment of mankind. The Chairperson of the Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Professor A A Ziauddin Ahmad thanked Professor Hossain for coming and delivering this wonderful lecture for BUNSC.