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Letter from the chair....

• provide an open forum for persons with different interests and concerns to come together to speak, to listen, to learn, and to participate in meaningful dialogue and eva luation of the potential impacts of agricultural biotechnology

• define issues and public policy options related to biotechnology in the food, ag-ricultural, biobased industrial product, and environmental areas

• promote increased understanding of the scientific, economic, legislative, and social issues associated with agricultural biotech-nol ogy by compiling and disseminating information to interested people

• facilitate active communication among researchers, administrators, policymakers, practitioners, and other concerned people to ensure that all viewpoints contribute to the safe, efficacious and equitable de-velopment of biotech nology for the benefit of society

• sponsor meetings and workshops and publish and distribute reports that provide a foundation for addressing issues.

NABC’S PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVES ARE TO:

Ralph W. F. Hardy, PresidentAllan Eaglesham, Executive Director

Susanne Lipari, Executive CoordinatorB15 Boyce Thompson Institute

Ithaca, NY 14853607-254-4856 fax-254-8680

nabc@cornell.eduhttp://nabc.cals.cornell.edu/

NEWSNEWSSummer 2014 No. 48

NABCNABC

P r o v i d i n g a n o p e n f o r u m f o r e x p l o r i n g i s s u e s i n

a g r i c u l t u r a l b i o t e c h n o l o g y

Abel Ponce de LeónAbel Ponce de LeónNABC Chair 2013–2014NABC Chair 2013–2014

TThe repertoire and resolution of tech-he repertoire and resolution of tech-nologies for genetic analysis has nologies for genetic analysis has

increased considerably in the last six increased considerably in the last six years. The two most important platforms, years. The two most important platforms, in my judgement, are next-generation-in my judgement, are next-generation-sequencing and DNA-editing. The former sequencing and DNA-editing. The former is helping elucidate our understanding of is helping elucidate our understanding of genome variation and of DNA gene- and genome variation and of DNA gene- and allelic-sequence differences that under-allelic-sequence differences that under-pin genetic disorders and that control pin genetic disorders and that control production traits in plants and animals. production traits in plants and animals. The latter allows change in DNA se-The latter allows change in DNA se-quence in a specific, deliberate manner quence in a s pecific, deliberate manner and, therefore, opens the possibility for and, therefore, opens the possibility for gene therapy in living cells, that is, cor-gene therapy in living cells, that is, cor-recting the sequence of genes affected recting the sequence of genes affected by mutations. For instance, sickle-cell by mutations. For instance, sickle-cell anemiaanemia11 in humans is caused by a single in humans is caused by a single nucleotide mutation in the beta-globin nucleotide mutation in the beta-globin gene. Homozygous individuals for the gene. Homozygous individuals for the mutation develop the disease whereas mutation develop the disease whereas heterozygous individuals present mild heterozygous individuals present mild symptoms and have an adaptive advan-symptoms and have an adaptive advan-tage in malaria-affected geographic areas. tage in malaria-affected geographic areas. In vitroIn vitro correction, by gene therapy, of correction, by gene therapy, of such a mutation in hematopoietic stem such a mutation in hematopoietic stem cells of patients affected by the disease, cells of patients affected by the disease, followed by implantation of those cells followed by implantation of those cells in their bone marrow, has the potential in their bone marrow, has the potential to ameliorate the condition. Likewise, to ameliorate the condition. Likewise, the possibility of editing genes that the possibility of editing genes that confer advantages in production traits confer advantages in production traits for plants and animals—based on identi-for plants and animals—based on identi-fied DNA-sequence differences among fied DNA-sequence differences among alleles found in wild-type or artificially alleles found in wild-type or artificially selected populations—is also at hand. In selected populations—is also at hand. In the Piedmontese breed of cattle, a single the Piedmontese breed of cattle, a single nucleotide mutation in the myostatin nucleotide mutation in the myostatin gene causes muscle hypertrophy known gene causes muscle hypertrophy known as “double muscling”as “double muscling”22. Animals carrying . Animals carrying this mutation have, on average, 20% more this mutation have, on average, 20% more lean muscle mass. If this trait is desired lean muscle mass. If this trait is desired for other breeds of cattle, the mutation for other breeds of cattle, the mutation can be introgressed by conventional can be introgressed by conventional crossbreeding followed by artificial se-crossbreeding followed by artificial se-lection for several generations, or it can lection for several generations, or it can be done by gene editing, which signifi-be done by gene editing, which signifi-1 Learning About Sickle Cell Disease (2011) Learning About Sickle Cell Disease (2011) http://http://www.genome.gov/10001219www.genome.gov/10001219.. 2McPherron AC and Lee S-J (1997) Double muscling McPherron AC and Lee S-J (1997) Double muscling in cattle due to mutations in the myostatin gene. Proc. in cattle due to mutations in the myostatin gene. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 94:12457–12461.Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 94:12457–12461.

cantly reduces the time frame necessary cantly reduces the time frame necessary to achieve the same result. In plants, to achieve the same result. In plants, herbicide resistance in common weedy herbicide resistance in common weedy and prairie sunf lower species occurs and prairie sunf lower species occurs naturally. A single nucleotide mutation naturally. A single nucleotide mutation in codon 197 of the acetohydroxyacid in codon 197 of the acetohydroxyacid synthase 1 gene confers high tolerance synthase 1 g ene confers high tolerance to sulfonylurea herbicides while another to sulfonylurea herbicides while another single nucleotide mutation at codon 205 single nucleotide mutation at codon 205 of the same gene confers high tolerance of the same gene confers high tolerance to imidazolinone herbicidesto imidazolinone herbicides33. These two . These two resistant-gene variants have been intro-resistant-gene variants have been intro-gressed to domesticated sunf lowers to gressed to domesticated sunf lowers to develop herbicide-tolerant lines. These develop herbicide-tolerant lines. These gene variants can now be introgressed gene variants can now be introgressed by DNA editing of similar genes in other by DNA editing of similar genes in other crop species. These examples allow us crop species. These examples allow us to visualize the importance of the DNA-to visualize the importance of the DNA-editing technologies available now for the editing technologies available now for the “molecular introgression of gene alleles” “molecular introgression of gene alleles” by DNA modification targeted to spe-by DNA modification targeted to spe-cific sites. In my view, one of the major cific sites. In my view, one of the major advantages is that these technologies advantages is that these technologies are not based on incorporating foreign-are not based on i ncorporating foreign-DNA fragments into living cells; rather, DNA fragments into living cells; rather, they simply modify DNA sequences in they simply modify DNA sequences in a specific directed manner, making use a specific directed manner, making use of the natural living cell DNA-repair of the natural living cell DNA-repair mechanism to accomplish it. mechanism to accomplish it.

NABC, in concordance with its NABC, in concordance with its mission, will provide an opportunity mission, will provide an opportunity through its twenty-sixth annual through its twenty-sixth annual conference to address the science behind conference to address the science behind these DNA-editing technologies as well these DNA-editing technologies as well as its applications, societal concerns as its applications, societal concerns 3 Tan S Bowe SJ (2009) Developing herbicide-Tan S Bowe SJ (2009) Developing herbicide-tolerant crops from mutations. In: Induced Plant tolerant crops from mutations. In: Induced Plant Mutations in the Genomics Era (Shu QY Ed.) p. 315. Mutations in the Genomics Era (Shu QY Ed.) p. 315. Rome: Food and Agriculture Organization of the Rome: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.United Nations. continued on page 8

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NABC 26—Mark Your CalendarsNABC 26—Mark Your CalendarsNew DNA-Editing Approaches: Methods, Applications and Policy for AgricultureNew DNA-Editing Approaches: Methods, Applications and Policy for Agriculture

October 8–9, 2014October 8–9, 2014Ithaca, New YorkIthaca, New York

Margaret Smith and Karen KindleCornell University and Boyce Thompson Research InstituteCornell University and Boyce Thompson Research Institute

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Cornell University and the Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research will host

NABC 26 at Cornell University, October 8–9, 2014. The conference, New DNA-Editing Approaches: Methods, Applications and Policy for Agriculture, will convene in the Biotechnolgy Building on the Cornell campus and offer a pr imer to the science behind new methods for gene modification, provide specific examples of improved crops and livestock that may soon enter the marketplace and address key policy issues concerning oversight of plant and animal variants created by us-ing these technologies. The meeting will comprise five modules—each including a panel discussion to allow ample opportunity for questions and dialogue—a tie-up panel, and luncheon and banquet presentations:

Keynote PresentationsKeynote Presentations• Overview–Dan Voytas (University of Minnesota)• Overview–Dan Voytas (University of Minnesota)• Animals–Perry Hackett (Recombinetics and University of • Animals–Perry Hackett (Recombinetics and University of

Minnesota)Minnesota)• Plants–Bing Yang (Iowa State University)• Plants–Bing Yang (Iowa State University)

TechnologiesTechnologies• CRISPRs–Ann Ran (Broad Institute)• CRISPRs–Ann Ran (Broad Institute)• TALENs–Adam Bogdanove (Cornell University)• TALENs–Adam Bogdanove (Cornell University)• Others–Greg Gocal (Cibus)• Others–Greg Gocal (Cibus)

UsesUses• Applications Developed at Dow–Gary Rudgers (Dow • Applications Developed at Dow–Gary Rudgers (Dow

AgroSciences)AgroSciences)• Swine–Le Ann Blomberg (USDA-Agricultural Research • Swine–Le Ann Blomberg (USDA-Agricultural Research

Service)Service)• Academic Consortium–Martin Spalding (Iowa State • Academic Consortium–Martin Spalding (Iowa State

University)University)

Non-Governmental Regulatory AspectsNon-Governmental Regulatory Aspects• University Perspectives–Jeff Wolt (Iowa State University)• University Perspectives–Jeff Wolt (Iowa State University)• Legal and Regulatory Implications–Drew Kershen • Legal and Regulatory Implications–Drew Kershen

(University of Oklahoma)(University of Oklahoma)• Public Perspectives–Gregory Jaffe (Center for Science in • Public Perspectives–Gregory Jaffe (Center for Science in

the Public Interest)the Public Interest)

Governmental Regulatory AspectsGovernmental Regulatory Aspects• USDA-APHIS-BRS Perspectives–Neil Hoffman (USDA-• USDA-APHIS-BRS Perspectives–Neil Hoffman (USDA-

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service)Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service)• Canadian Perspectives–Heather Shearer (Canadian Food • Canadian Perspectives–Heather Shearer (Canadian Food

Inspection Agency)Inspection Agency)• European Union Perspectives–Joachim Schiemann (Julius • European Union Perspectives–Joachim Schiemann (Julius

Kuehn Institute)Kuehn Institute)

Tie-Up PanelTie-Up PanelKaren Kindle (chair, Boyce Thompson Institute), Perry Hackett, Karen Kindle (chair, Boyce Thompson Institute), Perry Hackett, Neil Hoffman, Gregory Jaffe, Drew Kershen, Dan Voytas and Neil Hoffman, Gregory Jaffe, Drew Kershen, Dan Voytas and Donald Weeks (University of Nebraska) Donald Weeks (University of Nebraska)

Luncheon and Banquet PresentationsLuncheon and Banquet PresentationsDana Carroll (University of Utah) Dana Carroll (University of Utah) Jane Andrews (Wegmans Food Markets)Jane Andrews (Wegmans Food Markets)Geraldine Edens and Peter Whitfield (attorneys)Geraldine Edens and Peter Whitfield (attorneys)

Conference WebsiteConference Websitehttp://nabc.cals.cornell.edu/NABC26/Index.htmlhttp://nabc.cals.cornell.edu/NABC26/Index.html

RegistrationRegistrationThe registration fee is $275, with a student rate of $175 (The registration fee is $275, with a st udent rate of $175 (http://http://nabc.cals.cornell.edu/NABC26/Registration.htmlnabc.cals.cornell.edu/NABC26/Registration.html). The fee will ). The fee will cover refreshments at all breaks, a breakfast, two lunches, the cover refreshments at a ll breaks, a br eakfast, two lunches, the evening reception and banquet. evening reception and banquet.

AccommodationAccommodationConference participants may take advantage of special rates for Conference participants may take advantage of special rates for rooms reserved at Hotel Ithaca, of $109 (regular room) and $129 rooms reserved at Hotel Ithaca, of $109 (regular room) and $129 (tower room) ((tower room) (http://www.thehotelithaca.com/http://www.thehotelithaca.com/); these rates will ); these rates willugh SeSSZZZZZptember 5, 2014. Ask for the NABC rate when apply through September 5, 2014. Ask for the NABC rate when making your reservation. making your reservation.

A bus will transport participants from the hotel to campus in A bus will transport participants from the hotel to campus in the morning and back again in the evening. Ithaca has an excellent the morning and back again in the evening. Ithaca has an excellent local transportation system (local transportation system (http://www.tcatbus.com/http://www.tcatbus.com/) with bus ) with bus stops convenient to both locations for those who do not use the stops convenient to both locations for those who do not u se the conference shuttle. Arrangements may be made with the hotel for conference shuttle. Arrangements may be made with the hotel for shuttle service to and from Cornell.shuttle service to and from Cornell.

At the close of the conference—at 3:00 PM on October 9—a At the close of the conference—at 3:00 PM on October 9—a bus will take participants directly to the airport in Ithacabus will take participants directly to the airport in Ithaca11. For . For those leaving from Syracuse, we will arrange for pick-up at the those leaving from Syracuse, we will arrange for pick-up at t he Biotech Building by the Ithaca Airline Limousine (Biotech Building by the Ithaca Airline Limousine (http://www.http://www.transportationsithaca.com/Business-Commute-Ithaca-NY.htmltransportationsithaca.com/Business-Commute-Ithaca-NY.html). ). Please make your own reservation with the limousine company.Please make your own reservation with the limousine company.

October is peak season for fall color in the Finger Lakes. Arrive October is peak season for fall color in the Finger Lakes. Arrive early or stay an extra day or two and take in a winery tour along early or stay an extra day or two and take in a winery tour along Cayuga and Seneca Lakes (Cayuga and Seneca Lakes (http://experiencefingerlakes.com/exp_http://experiencefingerlakes.com/exp_standardwinerytours.htmlstandardwinerytours.html).).

Questions, comments and suggestions may be directed toQuestions, comments and suggestions may be directed toSusanne LipariSusanne Lipari607-257-4856607-257-4856

NABC@cornell.eduNABC@cornell.edu1 Flights via Syracuse and Elmira/Corning are also available. See the conference website for more information.

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Luncheon and Banquet Speakers

JJane Andrews ane Andrews is the nutrition and product-labeling manager for Wegmans Food Markets, a regional chain of is the nutrition and product-labeling manager for Wegmans Food Markets, a regional chain of 84 stores in six mid-Atlantic states. Her efforts at Wegmans include 84 stores in six mid-Atlantic states. Her efforts at Wegmans include Eat Well Live Well Eat Well Live Well (healthy lifestyle for (healthy lifestyle for

customers, employees and the community) with numerous articles in Wegmanscustomers, employees and the community) with numerous articles in Wegmans Menu Magazine Menu Magazine and on wegmans.and on wegmans.com. She is a popular speaker and routinely quoted in the national media on the topic of supermarket nutrition. For com. She is a popular speaker and routinely quoted in the national media on the topic of supermarket nutrition. For the ten years prior to joining Wegmans, she had been outpatient dietitian and certified diabetes educator at the the ten years prior to joining Wegmans, she had been outpatient dietitian and certified diabetes educator at the University of Rochester Medical Center. In 1987 she developed University of Rochester Medical Center. In 1987 she developed Cholesterol CountdownCholesterol Countdown WorkshopsWorkshops, which were , which were widely used in hospital, HMO- and worksite-wellness programs across the United States and Canada.widely used in hospital, HMO- and worksite-wellness programs across the United States and Canada.

Ms. Andrews has served on the executive committee of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics practice group Ms. Andrews has served on the executive committee of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics practice group for Food and Culinary Professionals, the Keystone Food and Nutrition Roundtable, and the Consumer Affairs for Food and Culinary Professionals, the Keystone Food and Nutrition Roundtable, and the Consumer Affairs

Committee of the Food Marketing Institute. She is a 2014 inductee to the Purdue University Nutrition Science Hall of Fame and is honored Committee of the Food Marketing Institute. She is a 2014 inductee to the Purdue University Nutrition Science Hall of Fame and is honored to present the 2014 Lenna Francis Cooper Lecture at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Annual Meeting in Atlanta in October.to present the 2014 Lenna Francis Cooper Lecture at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Annual Meeting in Atlanta in October.

DDana Carroll ana Carroll received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Swarthmore College, and a PhD in biophysical received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Swarthmore College, and a PhD in biophysical chemistry from the University of California at Berkeley in the laboratory of Ignacio Tinoco, Jr. He was a chemistry from the University of California at Berkeley in the laboratory of Ignacio Tinoco, Jr. He was a

postdoctoral fellow in Glasgow with John Paul, and at the Carnegie Institution Department of Embryology with postdoctoral fellow in Glasgow with John Paul, and at the Carnegie Institution Department of Embryology with Donald Brown. He has been on the faculty at the University of Utah School of Medicine since 1975, where he Donald Brown. He has been on the faculty at the University of Utah School of Medicine since 1975, where he served as chair of the Department of Biochemistry from 1985 to 2009.served as chair of the Department of Biochemistry from 1985 to 2009.

Dr. Carroll has a long-term interest in molecular mechanisms of DNA repair and recombination. He was a Dr. Carroll has a long-term interest in molecular mechanisms of DNA repair and recombination. He was a pioneer in the use of zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs) for targeted genome modifications. For this work he received pioneer in the use of zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs) for targeted genome modifications. For this work he received the 2012 Novitski Prize from the Genetics Society of America and the 2014 Sober Lectureship Award from the the 2012 Novitski Prize from the Genetics Society of America and the 2014 Sober Lectureship Award from the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. His current research focuses on genome engineering American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. His current research focuses on genome engineering

using ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPR/Cas nucleases.using ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPR/Cas nucleases.

GGeraldine Edenseraldine Edens focuses her practice on environmental litigation, regulatory matters and issues regarding law focuses her practice on environmental litigation, regulatory matters and issues regarding law and science. She counsels clients on environmental compliance, the law and science of chemical regulation, and science. She counsels clients on environmental compliance, the law and science of chemical regulation,

natural resource law, as well as on a variety of clean-air and water issues, food and drug approvals under the Food natural resource law, as well as on a variety of clean-air and water issues, food and drug approvals under the Food Drug and Cosmetic Act, and deregulation of genetically modified organisms under the Plant Protection Act. Drug and Cosmetic Act, and deregulation of genetically modified organisms under the Plant Protection Act.

She received her Bachelor of Science, Master’s and Juris Doctorate degrees from the University of Miami. She She received her Bachelor of Science, Master’s and Juris Doctorate degrees from the University of Miami. She also received a PhD in education from the University of Florida.also received a PhD in education from the University of Florida.

Dr. Edens has an extensive background in health, the biological sciences and statistics. She has a broad base Dr. Edens has an extensive background in health, the biological sciences and statistics. She has a broad base of litigation experience with a particular emphasis on litigating issues under the National Environmental Policy of litigation experience with a particular emphasis on litigating issues under the National Environmental Policy Act and related statutes, including the Endangered Species Act, the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Clean Act and related statutes, including the Endangered Species Act, the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act. She has defended the adequacy of environmental analyses for major economic Air Act and the Clean Water Act. She has defended the adequacy of environmental analyses for major economic

development projects, large-scale energy projects, interstate pipeline right-of-way approvals, and approvals of genetically engineered development projects, large-scale energy projects, interstate pipeline right-of-way approvals, and approvals of genetically engineered products.products.

PPeter Whitfieldeter Whitfield’s practice focuses on environmental litigation with an emphasis on natural resources law. A former ’s practice focuses on environmental litigation with an emphasis on natural resources law. A former attorney with the US Department of Justice in the Environment and Natural Resources Division, he has served as lead attorney with the US Department of Justice in the Environment and Natural Resources Division, he has served as lead

counsel in numerous cases defending projects against legal challenges under various environmental statutes including the counsel in numerous cases defending projects against legal challenges under various environmental statutes including the National Environmental Policy Act, the Federal Land Policy and Management Act, the Endangered Species Act and the National Environmental Policy Act, the Federal Land Policy and Management Act, the Endangered Species Act and the National Forest Management Act. He defended the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service in federal court against National Forest Management Act. He defended the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service in federal court against a challenge to permits allowing the cultivation of genetically engineered a challenge to permits allowing the cultivation of genetically engineered Eucalyptus.Eucalyptus.

He received his undergraduate degree from Duke University—where he double-majored in public policy and He received his undergraduate degree from Duke University—where he double-majored in public policy and economics—and a juris doctorate and environmental law certificate from the University of Hawaii’s William S. economics—and a ju ris doctorate and environmental law certificate from the University of Hawaii’s William S. Richardson School of Law.Richardson School of Law.

Dr. Whitfield writes and presents on issues related to the labeling of genetically engineered food. His articles have Dr. Whitfield writes and presents on issues related to the labeling of genetically engineered food. His articles have appeared in appeared in Law 360Law 360 and are featured on Mondaq, JD Supra, and Baker Hostetler’s environmental law blogs. and are featured on Mondaq, JD Supra, and Baker Hostetler’s environmental law blogs.

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WWith an extensive background in molecular biology, ith an extensive background in molecular biology, Greg Gocal Greg Gocal has been central in developing the has been central in developing the RTDS™ RTDS™ technology in plant and microbial systems. Currently, he leads the technology group at Cibus, and is part technology in plant and microbial systems. Currently, he leads the technology group at Cibus, and is part

of the senior executive team tasked with exploring the many commercial opportunities to deliver on of the senior executive team tasked with exploring the many commercial opportunities to deliver on RTDS’ RTDS’ po-po-tential applications. In the past, he has focused primarily on developing the molecular aspects of the technology, tential applications. In the past, he has focused primarily on developing the molecular aspects of the technology, including target characterization, mutation discovery, molecular screening and assay development. Also, he has including target characterization, mutation discovery, molecular screening and assay development. Also, he has played a key role in the development of Cibus’ first commercial product, SU Canola™ (sulfonylurea tolerant), and played a key role in the development of Cibus’ first commercial product, SU Canola™ (sulfonylurea tolerant), and in helping achieve regulatory approval for this trait in Canada. Over the past decade his research leadership has in helping achieve regulatory approval for this trait in Canada. Over the past decade his research leadership has led to multiple commercial partnerships for the company. In addition, his experience has expanded to include the led to multiple commercial partnerships for the company. In addition, his experience has expanded to include the development of key intellectual property through to products moving to market.development of key intellectual property through to products moving to market.

Dr. Gocal has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, several book chapters and is a co-inventor of Dr. Gocal has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, several book chapters and is a co-inventor of many patent applications within Cibus’ patent estate. He earned a BSc in biochemistry/botany and an MSc in plant physiology from the many patent applications within Cibus’ patent estate. He earned a BSc in biochemistry/botany and an MSc in plant physiology from the University of Calgary, and received his PhD in plant molecular biology from the Australian National University.University of Calgary, and received his PhD in plant molecular biology from the Australian National University.

PPerry Hackett erry Hackett has 50 years of experience in molecular genetics and genetic engineering. He has degrees in has 50 years of experience in molecular genetics and genetic engineering. He has degrees in physics (Stanford) and biophysics (University of Colorado). Since 1980, he has been a professor of genetics, physics (Stanford) and biophysics (University of Colorado). Since 1980, he has been a professor of genetics,

cell biology and development at the University of Minnesota, where he is a founder of the Center for Genome En-cell biology and development at the University of Minnesota, where he is a founder of the Center for Genome En-gineering. His focuses are on molecular genetics and genome research. Recently he has been developing methods gineering. His focuses are on molecular genetics and genome research. Recently he has been developing methods for gene editing in large animals including livestock. He has used bacteria, fish, mice and dogs as model systems for gene editing in large animals including livestock. He has used bacteria, fish, mice and dogs as model systems for investigating various transgenic technologies in vertebrate animals.for investigating various transgenic technologies in vertebrate animals.

The The Sleeping BeautySleeping Beauty Transposon System, invented in his lab as a way of delivering genes to vertebrates, Transposon System, invented in his lab as a way of delivering genes to vertebrates, is in human clinical trials for treatment of lymphoma and other cancers. He is a cofounder of Discovery is in human clinical trials for treatment of lymphoma and other cancers. He is a c ofounder of Discovery Genomics, to develop the Genomics, to develop the Sleeping BeautySleeping Beauty Transposon System for human gene therapy, and Recombinetics, Transposon System for human gene therapy, and Recombinetics, to genetically engineer livestock for biomedical and agricultural purposes. Both companies are based on to genetically engineer livestock for biomedical and agricultural purposes. Both companies are based on

technologies developed in his and his students’ labs. Currently, Dr. Hackett is the chief science officer of Recombinetics. He technologies developed in his and his students’ labs. Currently, Dr. Hackett is t he chief science officer of Recombinetics. He serves on three editorial boards and three scientific advisory boards in the areas of transgenesis, genome engineering and gene serves on three editorial boards and three scientific advisory boards in the areas of transgenesis, genome engineering and gene editing.editing.

AAdam Bogdanovedam Bogdanove is a professor of plant pathology and plant-microbe biology at Cornell University. is a pro fessor of plant pathology and plant-microbe biology at Cornell University. His research centers on diseases of rice caused by the bacterial species His research centers on diseases of rice caused by the bacterial species Xanthomonas oryzaeXanthomonas oryzae, with a , with a

special focus on TAL effectors, special focus on TAL effectors, i.e.i.e. transcription factors injected by the bacterium into the plant to activate transcription factors injected by the bacterium into the plant to activate host genes during infection. He discovered the modular mechanism by which TAL effectors recognize their host genes during infection. He discovered the modular mechanism by which TAL effectors recognize their DNA targets and has pioneered the use of TAL effectors as customizable DNA-targeting domains for a DNA targets and has pioneered the use of TAL effectors as customizable DNA-targeting domains for a variety of applications including genome editing and synthetic biology.variety of applications including genome editing and synthetic biology.

Dr. Bogdanove earned his BS degree in biology at Yale University in 1987, and his PhD in plant Dr. Bogdanove earned his BS degree in biology at Yale University in 1987, and his PhD in plant pathology at Cornell in 1997. Following postdoctoral work at Purdue University and later at the Boyce pathology at Cornell in 1997. Following postdoctoral work at P urdue University and later at t he Boyce Thompson Institute, he joined the Department of Plant Pathology at Iowa State University in 2000 and Thompson Institute, he joined the Department of Plant Pathology at Iowa State University in 2000 and moved to Cornell in 2012.moved to Cornell in 2012.

LLe Ann Blombeg e Ann Blombeg is the research leader at the USDA-ARS animal biosciences and biotechnology labora-is the research leader at the USDA-ARS animal biosciences and biotechnology labora-tory at Beltsville, Maryland. Dr. Blomberg’s focus is the elucidation and analysis of factors affecting tory at Beltsville, Maryland. Dr. Blomberg’s focus is the elucidation and analysis of factors affecting

embryonic, fetal or placental growth and/or development coincident with delayed growth/maturation in swine.embryonic, fetal or placental growth and/or development coincident with delayed growth/maturation in swine.

Plenary Speakers

http://nabc.cals.cornell.edu/NABC26/Program.html

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NNeil Hoffman eil Hoffman is the chief scientific advisor in the Office of the Deputy Administrator in Biotechnology Regula-is the chief scientific advisor in the Office of the Deputy Administrator in Biotechnology Regula-tory Services, USDA/APHIS. Prior to this role, he was director of the Environmental Risk Analysis Division tory Services, USDA/APHIS. Prior to this role, he was director of the Environmental Risk Analysis Division

in BRS from 2003 to 2008. Prior to joining BRS in 2003, he spent a year as a program director in the Molecular in BRS from 2003 to 2008. Prior to joining BRS in 2003, he spent a year as a program director in the Molecular and Cellular Biology Division at the National Science Foundation. From 1999 to 2002, he was a research manager and Cellular Biology Division at the National Science Foundation. From 1999 to 2002, he was a research manager at Paradigm Genetics where he directed the research and development activities for the establishment of high-at Paradigm Genetics where he directed the research and development activities for the establishment of high-throughput platforms for discovery of stress genes, new herbicide targets, and the mode of action of herbicides. From throughput platforms for discovery of stress genes, new herbicide targets, and the mode of action of herbicides. From 1988 to 1999, Dr. Hoffman was a faculty member of the Department of Plant Biology in the Carnegie Institution 1988 to 1999, Dr. Hoffman was a faculty member of the Department of Plant Biology in the Carnegie Institution of Science where he worked in the area of chloroplast protein targeting.of Science where he worked in the area of chloroplast protein targeting.

He received his BS degree in biology from Cornell University and a PhD in plant physiology from the He received his BS degree in biology from Cornell University and a P hD in plant physiology from the University of California, Davis.University of California, Davis.

GGreg Jaffe reg Jaffe is the director of the Project on Biotechnology for the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), is the director of the Project on Biotechnology for the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), a non-profit consumer organization. He joined CSPI in 2001 after a long and distinguished career in government a non-profit consumer organization. He joined CSPI in 2001 after a long and distinguished career in government

service as a trial attorney for the US Department of Justice’s Environmental and Natural Resources Division and as service as a trial attorney for the US Department of Justice’s Environmental and Natural Resources Division and as senior counsel with the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Air Enforcement Division. Mr. Jaffe is a recognized senior counsel with the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Air Enforcement Division. Mr. Jaffe is a recognized expert on agricultural biotechnology and biosafety, on which topics he has published numerous articles and reports. He expert on agricultural biotechnology and biosafety, on which topics he has published numerous articles and reports. He has worked on biosafety regulatory issues in the United States and throughout the world, including in Kenya, Uganda, has worked on biosafety regulatory issues in the United States and throughout the world, including in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ghana, Nigeria, Malawi, South Africa, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam. He was a member of the Tanzania, Ghana, Nigeria, Malawi, South Africa, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam. He was a member of the secretary of agriculture’s Advisory Committee on Agricultural Biotechnology and 21st Century Agriculture from secretary of agriculture’s Advisory Committee on Agricultural Biotechnology and 21st Century Agriculture from 2003 to 2008, and was reappointed in 2011. He was also a member of the Food and Drug Administration’s Veterinary 2003 to 2008, and was reappointed in 2011. He was also a member of the Food and Drug Administration’s Veterinary Medicine Advisory Committee from 2004 to 2008. Medicine Advisory Committee from 2004 to 2008.

Jaffe earned his BA with high honors from Wesleyan University in biology and government and then received Jaffe earned his BA with high honors from Wesleyan University in biology and government and then received a law degree from Harvard Law School. a law degree from Harvard Law School.

DDrew Kershen rew Kershen is the Earl Sneed Centennial Professor of Law (Emeritus) at the University of Oklahoma. He has is the Earl Sneed Centennial Professor of Law (Emeritus) at the University of Oklahoma. He has a BA from Notre Dame, a JD from the University of Texas, and an LL.M from Harvard. Professor Kershen a BA from Notre Dame, a JD from the University of Texas, and an LL.M from Harvard. Professor Kershen

taught at the University of Oklahoma from 1971 to 2012. He has served as a visiting professor at the University of taught at the University of Oklahoma from 1971 to 2012. He has served as a visiting professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champagne and the University of Kansas, and as a Fulbright teaching fellow to the Universidad José Illinois Urbana-Champagne and the University of Kansas, and as a Fulbright teaching fellow to the Universidad José Cecilio del Valle in Tegucigalpa, Honduras.Cecilio del Valle in Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

In the past sixteen years, Kershen has focused his teaching, writing, and speaking on agricultural biotechnology In the past sixteen years, Kershen has focused his teaching, writing, and speaking on agricultural biotechnology law and policy issues. He has written extensively on legal liability, intellectual property, international trade, and law and policy issues. He has written extensively on legal liability, intellectual property, international trade, and regulatory issues in agricultural biotechnology. He has been a speaker at biotechnology conferences in many nations regulatory issues in agricultural biotechnology. He has been a speaker at biotechnology conferences in many nations and has participated in international negotiations concerning agricultural biotechnology.and has participated in international negotiations concerning agricultural biotechnology.

He is admitted to the Oklahoma Bar and the Bar of the United States Court for the Western District of Oklahoma. He is admitted to the Oklahoma Bar and the Bar of the United States Court for the Western District of Oklahoma.

AAnn Ran nn Ran is currently a postdoctoral fellow in Feng Zhang’s laboratory at the Broad Institute of MIT and Har-is currently a postdoctoral fellow in Feng Zhang’s laboratory at the Broad Institute of MIT and Har-vard and a junior fellow at the Harvard Society of Fellows. She graduated vard and a junior fellow at the Harvard Society of Fellows. She graduated cum laude cum laude with a BS from Yale with a BS from Yale

in 2006, and received her PhD in biochemistry from Harvard in 2014. In the Zhang lab, she co-developed Cas9 in 2006, and received her PhD in biochemistry from Harvard in 2014. In the Zhang lab, she co-developed Cas9 for mammalian genome engineering and established methods for rapid generation of cell lines using Cas9, with for mammalian genome engineering and established methods for rapid generation of cell lines using Cas9, with reagents now widely distributed by Addgene.reagents now widely distributed by Addgene.

Dr. Ran has presented her work on improving Cas9 specificity using the double-nicking method and Dr. Ran has presented her work on i mproving Cas9 specificity using the double-nicking method and elucidating Cas9 and guide-RNA structure-function relationships at a number of conferences. She received the elucidating Cas9 and guide-RNA structure-function relationships at a number of conferences. She received the Meselson Prize at Harvard for the “most beautiful experiment” in 2013 and was a finalist for the Regeneron Meselson Prize at Harvard for the “most beautiful experiment” in 2013 and was a f inalist for the Regeneron Creative Innovations Prize.Creative Innovations Prize.

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JJoachim Schiemanoachim Schieman is director of the Institute for Biosafety in Plant Biotechnology at the Julius Kuehn Institute is director of the Institute for Biosafety in Plant Biotechnology at the Julius Kuehn Institute in the Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants and is an honorary professor at the University of Lüne-in the Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants and is an honorary professor at the University of Lüne-

burg. He received a PhD in biochemistry from Martin-Luther-University, Halle, in 1977. From 1976 to 1991 he burg. He received a PhD in biochemistry from Martin-Luther-University, Halle, in 1977. From 1976 to 1991 he worked as senior scientist at the Institute for Plant Biochemistry, Halle, and the Central Institute for Genetics and worked as senior scientist at the Institute for Plant Biochemistry, Halle, and the Central Institute for Genetics and Crop Plants Research, Gatersleben. From 1991 to 2007 he was senior scientist at the Institute for Plant Virology, Crop Plants Research, Gatersleben. From 1991 to 2007 he was senior scientist at the Institute for Plant Virology, Microbiology and Biosafety in the Federal Biological Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, and was head Microbiology and Biosafety in the Federal Biological Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, and was head of the Genetechnology and Biosafety Division.of the Genetechnology and Biosafety Division.

Dr. Schiemann has been coordinating several national and EU-funded cluster projects on biosafety research. Dr. Schiemann has been coordinating several national and EU-funded cluster projects on biosafety research. From 2000 to 2003 he was a member of the Scientific Committee on Plants of the European Commission at From 2000 to 2003 he was a member of the Scientific Committee on Plants of the European Commission at the Health & Consumer Protection Directorate-General, and from 2003 to 2009 was a member of the Panel on the Health & Consumer Protection Directorate-General, and from 2003 to 2009 was a member of the Panel on

Genetically Modified Organisms of the European Food Safety Authority. From 2002 to 2012 he served on the Executive Committee Genetically Modified Organisms of the European Food Safety Authority. From 2002 to 2012 he served on the Executive Committee of the International Society for Biosafety Research (ISBR), and from 2004 to 2008 was president of ISBR. Since 2004, he has been a of the International Society for Biosafety Research (ISBR), and from 2004 to 2008 was president of ISBR. Since 2004, he has been a member of the steering council of the European technology platform, member of the steering council of the European technology platform, Plants for the Future.Plants for the Future.

MMartin Spalding artin Spalding received a BS degree in both environmental science and biochemistry in 1974, and an received a BS degree in both environmental science and biochemistry in 1974, and an MS in botany in 1976, from Washington State University. He received his PhD in plant physiology from MS in botany in 1976, from Washington State University. He received his PhD in plant physiology from

the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1979, was a postdoctoral associate at the University of Illinois-Urbana/the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1979, was a postdoctoral associate at the University of Illinois-Urbana/Champaign until 1982 and was a visiting postdoctoral fellow at the Australian National University later that year. Champaign until 1982 and was a visiting postdoctoral fellow at the Australian National University later that year. From 1982 to 1984, he was a postdoctoral associate and a research assistant professor in the US Department of From 1982 to 1984, he was a postdoctoral associate and a research assistant professor in the US Department of Energy’s Plant Research Laboratory at Michigan State University.Energy’s Plant Research Laboratory at Michigan State University.

Dr. Spalding joined Iowa State University in 1984 as an assistant professor in the Department of Botany. He served Dr. Spalding joined Iowa State University in 1984 as an assistant professor in the Department of Botany. He served as chair of the Interdepartmental Plant Physiology program at ISU from 1992 until 2000. In July 2003, he assumed the as chair of the Interdepartmental Plant Physiology program at ISU from 1992 until 2000. In July 2003, he assumed the position of chair of the newly formed Department of Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, and served as chair of the position of chair of the newly formed Department of Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, and served as chair of the Department of GDCB until July 2011, when he became interim associate dean for research and graduate studies in the Department of GDCB until July 2011, when he became interim associate dean for research and graduate studies in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and formally accepted the position of associate dean in January 2013. Spalding also College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and formally accepted the position of associate dean in January 2013. Spalding also

became the director of the ISU Crop Bioengineering Consortium in July 2013.became the director of the ISU Crop Bioengineering Consortium in July 2013.

HHeather Shearer eather Shearer is a regulator with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s Plant Biosafety Office (CFIA-is a regulator with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s Plant Biosafety Office (CFIA-PBO), which oversees the environmental release of plants with novel traits. She joined the PBO after complet-PBO), which oversees the environmental release of plants with novel traits. She joined the PBO after complet-

ing postdoctoral studies at the National Research Council Canada Plant Biotechnology Institute. Her educational ing postdoctoral studies at the National Research Council Canada Plant Biotechnology Institute. Her educational background includes a PhD in plant agriculture from the University of Guelph, and an MSc in plant molecular background includes a PhD in plant agriculture from the University of Guelph, and an MSc in plant molecular biology from Queen’s University.biology from Queen’s University.

Dr. Shearer particularly enjoys the aspects of her work that involve keeping policy relevant to rapidly Dr. Shearer particularly enjoys the aspects of her work that involve keeping policy relevant to rapidly developing technology and knowledge.developing technology and knowledge.

GGary Rudgers iary Rudgers is the global regulatory leader for new business at Dow AgroSciences in Indianapolis. Over the s the global regulatory leader for new business at Dow AgroSciences in Indianapolis. Over the past six years with the company, he has worked to develop, assess and coordinate global regulatory strate-past six years with the company, he has worked to develop, assess and coordinate global regulatory strate-

gies for emerging and leading biotech crops developed through novel plant technologies. In addition to his role at gies for emerging and leading biotech crops developed through novel plant technologies. In addition to his role at Dow AgroSciences, Dr. Rudgers chairs the CropLife International New Breeding Techniques (CLI-NBT) working Dow AgroSciences, Dr. Rudgers chairs the CropLife International New Breeding Techniques (CLI-NBT) working group. Since 2013, this industry organization team has developed and distributed documentation on precision group. Since 2013, this industry organization team has developed and distributed documentation on precision breeding applications to governments and regulatory bodies worldwide. As chair, he has represented the CLI-breeding applications to governments and regulatory bodies worldwide. As chair, he has represented the CLI-NBT working group at various international organizations, government agencies and international conferences. NBT working group at various international organizations, government agencies and international conferences.

Prior to joining Dow AgroSciences in 2008, Dr. Rudgers was one of the leading scientists to help launch Prior to joining Dow AgroSciences in 2008, Dr. Rudgers was one of the leading scientists to help launch the biotechnology company, Chromatin, Inc., in Chicago. From 2002 to 2008 he led the Chromatin molecular the biotechnology company, Chromatin, Inc., in Chicago. From 2002 to 2008 he led the Chromatin molecular biology research team to develop and construct the first autonomous plant mini-chromosomes. Dr. Rudgers held biology research team to develop and construct the first autonomous plant mini-chromosomes. Dr. Rudgers held a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Chicago from 2001 to 2002 and received his PhD in molecular a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Chicago from 2001 to 2002 and received his PhD in molecular

microbiology and immunology from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, in 2001.microbiology and immunology from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, in 2001.

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DDonald Weekonald Weeks is the Maxcy Professor of Agriculture and Natural Resources in the Department of Biochem-s is the Maxcy Professor of Agriculture and Natural Resources in the Department of Biochem-istry at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He received his BS from Purdue University and his PhD from istry at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He received his BS from Purdue University and his PhD from

the University of Illinois-Champaign/Urbana. He held professional positions at the Fox Chase Cancer Center in the University of Illinois-Champaign/Urbana. He held professional positions at the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia and the Zoecon Research Institute of Sandoz Agro, Inc., in Palo Alto, before joining UNL in 1989.Philadelphia and the Zoecon Research Institute of Sandoz Agro, Inc., in Palo Alto, before joining UNL in 1989.

Dr. Weeks is a plant molecular biologist and biochemist. His earliest scientific contributions included Dr. Weeks is a p lant molecular biologist and biochemist. His earliest scientific contributions included discovery of mechanisms involved in protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells and development of systems for studies discovery of mechanisms involved in protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells and development of systems for studies of gene regulation in plants and algae. He was a pioneer in the adoption of molecular biology and recombinant-of gene regulation in plants and algae. He was a pioneer in the adoption of molecular biology and recombinant-DNA technologies in biological research. The Weeks laboratory at UNL was responsible for the development of DNA technologies in biological research. The Weeks laboratory at UNL was responsible for the development of dicamba herbicide-resistance gene technology that soon will be commercialized. Most recently, his laboratory has dicamba herbicide-resistance gene technology that soon will be commercialized. Most recently, his laboratory has been involved in innovative research aimed at developing and applying new methods for targeted gene knockout been involved in innovative research aimed at developing and applying new methods for targeted gene knockout

and gene replacement for use in improving important food crops.and gene replacement for use in improving important food crops.

JJeff Wolt eff Wolt is a risk analyst with Iowa State University where he specializes in research, teaching, and outreach is a risk analyst with Iowa State University where he specializes in research, teaching, and outreach activities relating to risks and benefits of modern plant agriculture. He obtained his doctorate at Auburn University activities relating to risks and benefits of modern plant agriculture. He obtained his doctorate at Auburn University

and spent his early career on the faculty of the University of Tennessee and in industry. At ISU, he is a member of and spent his early career on the faculty of the University of Tennessee and in industry. At ISU, he is a member of the Faculties of Agronomy, Toxicology and Environmental Sciences and he maintains an adjunct appointment in the Faculties of Agronomy, Toxicology and Environmental Sciences and he maintains an adjunct appointment in epidemiology at the University of Iowa.epidemiology at the University of Iowa.

Dr. Wolt has extensive experience in global and national risk assessment and issues management in Dr. Wolt has extensive experience in global and national risk assessment and issues management in relation to the commercialization and use of genetically engineered crops. His diverse research interests relation to the commercialization and use of genetically engineered crops. His diverse research interests encompass environmental fate and effects, food safety and non-target risk assessment in relation to encompass environmental fate and effects, food safety and non-target risk assessment in relation to crop production and use. Also, he is interested in globally harmonized principles for biotechnology-risk crop production and use. Also, he is interested in globally harmonized principles for biotechnology-risk assessment. Wolt currently serves on the US National Academy of Sciences committee to evaluate pesticide assessment. Wolt currently serves on the US National Academy of Sciences committee to evaluate pesticide

risk-assessment methods for the state of California. He is a fellow of the American Society of Agronomy and the author of the risk-assessment methods for the state of California. He is a fellow of the American Society of Agronomy and the author of the text text Soil Solution ChemistrySoil Solution Chemistry..

BBing Yanging Yang’s research interests focus on: the molecular mechanisms of plant/microbe interactions and crop ’s research interests focus on: the molecular mechanisms of plant/microbe interactions and crop disease-resistance engineering by using the bacterial blight of rice as a model; and development and ap-disease-resistance engineering by using the bacterial blight of rice as a model; and development and ap-

plication of uTALEN and CRISPR technologies for targeted genome editing in plants. Over the past 15 years, plication of uTALEN and CRISPR technologies for targeted genome editing in plants. Over the past 15 years, he has identified and characterized several important naturally occurring TAL effectors in the rice pathogen he has identified and characterized several important naturally occurring TAL effectors in the rice pathogen Xanthomonas oryzaeXanthomonas oryzae for their disease-promoting ability, and, most recently, he has helped harness the disease- for their disease-promoting ability, and, most recently, he has helped harness the disease-causing TAL effectors for targeted gene editing. His group generated the first disease-resistant crop species by causing TAL effectors for targeted gene editing. His group generated the first disease-resistant crop species by using the TALEN technology.using the TALEN technology.

Dr. Yang has a PhD in plant pathology from Kansas State University. He is an associate professor in the Dr. Yang has a PhD in plant pathology from Kansas State University. He is a n associate professor in the Department of Genetics, Development and Cell Biology at Iowa State University.Department of Genetics, Development and Cell Biology at Iowa State University.

DDan Voytas an Voytas is a professor in the Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development at the University of is a professor in the Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development at the University of Minnesota (UMN) and director of the UMN’s Center for Genome Engineering.Minnesota (UMN) and director of the UMN’s Center for Genome Engineering.

He graduated from Harvard College in 1984 and received his PhD in genetics from Harvard Medical School He graduated from Harvard College in 1984 and received his PhD in genetics from Harvard Medical School in 1990. He conducted postdoctoral research at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine where he was a in 1990. He conducted postdoctoral research at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine where he was a fellow of the Life Science Research Foundation. In 1992, he joined the faculty at Iowa State University where fellow of the Life Science Research Foundation. In 1992, he joined the faculty at Iowa State University where he was promoted to associate professor in 1997 and to professor in 2001. In 2008, he joined the faculty at UMN.he was promoted to associate professor in 1997 and to professor in 2001. In 2008, he joined the faculty at UMN.

Dr. Voytas advises agricultural biotechnology companies on the use of new methods of genome engineering Dr. Voytas advises agricultural biotechnology companies on the use of new methods of genome engineering for crop improvement and he serves as chief science officer for Cellectis Plant Sciences in New Brighton, MN. for crop improvement and he serves as chief science officer for Cellectis Plant Sciences in New Brighton, MN. He is an elected fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.He is an elected fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

http://nabc.cals.cornell.edu/NABC26/Lodging.html

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NABCB15 Boyce Thompson Institute

Tower RoadIthaca, NY 14853

and regulatory aspects. NABC 26 will and regulatory aspects. NABC 26 will bring together academic and industry bring together academic and industry scientists, students, representatives of scientists, students, representatives of regulatory agencies and institutions regulatory agencies and institutions providing public opinion to engage in providing public opinion to engage in constructive dialogue with the objective constructive dialogue with the objective to listen to the varied perspectives to listen to the varied perspectives of each of these constituencies. of each of these constituencies. The conference, hosted by Cornell The conference, hosted by Cornell University and the Boyce Thompson University and the Boyce Thompson Institute, will be convened at Cornell Institute, will be convened at Cornell University next October 8 and 9. The University next October 8 a nd 9. The

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organizing committee, chaired by Dr. organizing committee, chaired by Dr. Margaret Smith of Cornell University, Margaret Smith of Cornell University, has put together an excellent program has put t ogether an excellent program with ample opportunity for audience with ample opportunity for audience interaction with speakers through panel interaction with speakers through panel discussions. As in recent years the discussions. As in recent years the

Abel Ponce de LeeónProfessor, Molecular Genetics

University of Minnesota

opinions of students will be captured opinions of students will be captured via the via the Student VoiceStudent Voice program. Besides program. Besides the importance of the theme, NABC 26 the importance of the theme, NABC 26 will coincide with the peak season for will coincide with the peak season for fall colors in the Finger Lakes area—fall colors in the Finger Lakes area—