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NIH News Advisory

Where to Be in April 2003!

BETHESDA, Md., February 10, 2003 - April 2003 will witness the completion of the human genome sequence. To mark this historic accomplishment, the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) and the Department of Energy (DOE) are holding a landmark scientific symposium on April 14-15 that will feature some of the biggest names in genetics of the past 50 years including: James Watson, Francis Collins, Marshall Nirenberg and Stanley Cohen.

NHGRI and DOE will also hold a news conference, tentatively scheduled for 11:30 a.m., EST on April 14, to announce the finished sequence of the human genome and the publication of a bold new vision for the future of genomics research.

Both events are being held at the Natcher Conference Center on the National Institutes of Health (NIH) campus in Bethesda, Md.

  • April 14 and 15
    From Double Helix to Human Sequence - and Beyond

    Scientific Symposium
    NIH, Natcher Conference Center
    Bethesda, MD

    Distinguished speakers will describe the science and history of the Human Genome Project, as well as the 50th anniversary of the Watson and Crick paper describing the double helix. In addition, the scientists will explore how genomic research stands to revolutionize medicine in the 21st Century.

    Limited seating is available at the scientific symposium for members of the press. Pre-registration is mandatory. Please indicate your interest by contacting Geoff Spencer at spencerg@mail.nih.gov

Other Planned Events:

  • April 13
    Genome: The Secret of How Life Works

    Museum Exhibit Preview
    Arts and Industries Building
    Smithsonian Institution
    Washington, DC

    A special preview of an exciting museum exhibit designed to expand the public's knowledge and understanding of genomics. The full exhibit will open at the Smithsonian in June 2003.

  • April 15
    9 a.m.-12:45 p.m.
    Public Symposium
    Bringing the Genome to You

    National Museum of Natural History
    Smithsonian Institution
    Washington, DC

    A series of talks by Nobel Laureate James Watson, Francis Collins and other genetic pioneers on how genomics influences health and society.

  • April 25
    National DNA Day

    Education Event

    High schools throughout the country celebrate the 50th anniversary of the description of the DNA double helix. Students will be able to watch a videocast of James Watson and Francis Collins, hosted by veteran science journalist Robert Krulwich, discussing the history and future of human genetics.

NHGRI has planned many other events for April 2003. Information is being posted as it becomes available at www.genome.gov/About/April2003.

NHGRI is one of the 27 institutes and centers at the NIH, which is an agency of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

Contact:
Geoff Spencer
NHGRI
Phone: (301) 451-8325
E-mail: spencerg@mail.nih.gov

Last Reviewed: February 25, 2012

Last updated: February 25, 2012