Overview
PNRI’s Science Matters free, virtual seminars feature discussions with scientists around the globe about exciting research in genetics, genomics, and evolutionary biology with important societal impact.
Topics include research on the genetics of ethnically diverse populations, diseases afflicting vulnerable or underserved groups, and efforts to expand the diversity (broadly defined) of research subjects or the scientific workforce.
The seminars are free to attend and open to the scientific community and anyone interested in learning more about genetics. These are virtual events (via Zoom) and require advance registration. Each seminar has a unique registration link. Register for our next seminar at the bottom of this page.
17
September
12:00 noon – 1:30pm (PT)
Newborn Screening
In honor of Newborn Screening Awareness Month, our September Science Matters seminar will spotlight the science, policy, and impact of newborn screening—the nation’s most successful public health program. Join us to learn how advances in screening are shaping the future of care for rare and genetic diseases.
Highlights of Newborn Screening for Treatable Diseases
Michael H. Gelb, PhD
Weinstein Endowed Chair in Chemistry, University of Washington
Dr. Gelb will trace the evolution of newborn screening assays over the past two decades and highlight new technologies developed in the last two years that are shaping the future of this critical public health program.
Newborn Screening for Rare Diseases in 2025 – The Bad, the Ugly, the Good, and the Beautiful!
Dean Suhr
President & Co-Founder of MLD Foundation
2025 has been a year of big shifts in medical research, especially in newborn screening – the nation’s most successful public health program. This talk will cover the status of adding new conditions to the federal Recommended Uniform Screening Panel and launching in-state newborn screening programs. It will also touch on how the recent elimination of the federal ACHDNC advisory committee and the reorganization of HRSA and HHS have created both challenges and new opportunities.
Upcoming Science Matters Seminars
Past Seminars
Support Science Matters
PNRI’s Science Matters seminar series brings leading voices in genetics and biomedical science to our community—sparking conversation, sharing discoveries, and highlighting research that has real-world impact.
We invite companies and organizations who share our passion for innovation, health, and science education to become corporate sponsors of the Science Matters series.
By sponsoring a seminar, your company can:
- Align with cutting-edge genetic research
- Engage with a diverse audience of scientists, students, and science supporters
- Demonstrate your commitment to scientific advancement
Explore sponsorship levels and benefits on our Corporate Sponsorship page and help us bring more science to more people.
Questions
Contact the Development Team via our contact form or call (206) 726-1233 with any questions you may have about giving to PNRI. We appreciate your support.