Utah Tech opens ‘cutting edge’ Center for Precision Medicine and Functional Genomics  

Adelmarie Murphy, right, who provided the first fellowship for student research at Utah Tech University’s new Center for Precision Medicine & Functional Genomics, receives hands-on experience in the lab with guidance from the program’s first student fellow Reign Krieger, April 14, 2023 | Photo courtesy of Utah Tech University, St. George News

ST. GEORGE — As a key step toward improving human health, Utah Tech University showcased its new Center for Precision & Functional Genomics and the Variant Science Training Program with an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony held on campus on Friday, April 14.

According to a news release, the event included a tour of the space, located in Utah Tech’s Science, Engineering & Technology Building, as well as hands-on experience in the lab and opportunities to talk to students about the new program.

“This new center aligns with Utah Tech’s polytechnic mission including a state-of-the-art lab and opportunities for our students to participate in cutting-edge programs,” Utah Tech President Richard B. Williams said in a news release. “These real-world, hands-on training experiences will prepare our students to be successful researchers, doctors, entrepreneurs and scientists.”

Prior to the ribbon-cutting, Williams and Culmination Bio CEO Lincoln Nadauld expressed their excitement for the program and the impact it will have on Utah Tech student learning as well as on human health. Additionally, Howard Mcleod, an internationally recognized expert in precision medicine, was introduced as center director.

Recognizing the value and importance of this work, Congressman Chris Stewart secured $790,000 in funding for the Variant Science Training Program through Federal Community Project funding. Other key partners contributing to the center include Laura Atwood, Intermountain Foundation, Culmination Bio and Adelmarie Murphy, who provided the first fellowship for student research at the center.

Utah Tech University hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the new Center for Precision Medicine and Functional Genomics and the Variant Science Training Program on campus Friday, April 14, 2023 | Photo courtesy of Utah Tech University, St. George News

Functional genomics is an area of research focused on newly-discovered mutations and the role they play on human health. Zebrafish are utilized in the lab because they share 70 percent of their genes with humans, making them useful model organisms in functional genomics discoveries.

“We look forward to providing impactful opportunities to our students during their college journey,” Aaron Davis, associate dean for the College of Science, Engineering & Technology, said in the news release. “We’re confident this is just the beginning.”

Students participating in this program can obtain a Functional Genomics Certificate as well as certificates in Bioinformatics, Protein Characterizations, Genetic Sequencing and Variant Science.

Click here for more information about degrees for the College of Science, Engineering & Technology.

Free News Delivery by Email

Would you like to have the day's news stories delivered right to your inbox every evening? Enter your email below to start!