Bio-technology research pushed forwards in Vietnam

Hanoi, July 8 (VNA)- Over 500 foreign and domestic scientists, lecturers and post graduates joined the national bio-technology conference held in the central coastal city of Da Nang on July 7. The conference, jointly organised by the Vietnam-UK Institute for Research and Executive Education, the Vietnam Biology Association under the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations and the UK’s Aston University, focused on medical bio-technology, bio fuel, genetic technology and life science. Reports at the event highlighted achievements in applying ADN technology to analysing samples of fallen soldiers’ remains for identification in Vietnam, using Type 1 interferon to treat hepatitis C in Vietnam and the upgrades of batch fermentation process, among others. According to Ph.D Prof. Nguyen Lan Dung, Chairman of the Vietnam Biology Association, bio-technology is considered as a key sector besides information technology and new building materials technology. At the event, Aston University’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor – International - Professor Helen Griffiths underscored that the conference created a valuable opportunity for bio-researchers from Aston University and Da Nang University as well as other international researchers to share experience and knowledge. The professor stressed that bio-technology has huge potentials for development in the future, saying that it is vital to cooperate and support each other in bio research.-VNA