David Botstein, known as 'The Father of Modern Genetics', was awarded the 2003 Gruber Prize for his groundbreaking work on human genetic mapping and the discovery of transposons in bacteria. He will continue to lead research at Princeton University's Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics.
The new test uses PAP smears to isolate and genetically identify foetal cells, allowing for non-invasive prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal and single gene disorders. This reduces the risk of miscarriage associated with invasive tests and increases accessibility to prenatal testing for all pregnant women.
The International Congress of Genetics will consider the implications of the genetics revolution on global food security, health care, and social justice. The event aims to provide representation from developing countries, which have the most to gain and lose from genetic advancements.