Building Bridges: Empowering Community Through Science Outreach

January 20, 2025

In our ever-evolving world, science thrives not in isolation but through collaboration and outreach. Particularly in the rapidly evolving field of genomics, effective scientific outreach has become more critical than ever.

At Genome BC, we recognize that the power of genomics to improve lives and shape a healthier future for British Columbians rests not only on research, but also on fostering a strong foundation of public understanding and engagement.

Building Partnerships to Spark Student Curiosity

This year, the Geneskool® program ignited a passion for science in students across the province, building strong partnerships with Capilano University, Thompson Rivers University (TRU), Vancouver Island University (VIU) and the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC). These collaborations led to exciting developments, including more field trips and the expansion of the program, allowing more students to experience the thrill of hands on science. Geneskool’s collaboration with TRU’s Indigenous Science Camp increased accessibility and fostered cross-cultural learning opportunities.

Geneskool established other valuable collaborations including working with the Pacific Institute for Pathogens, Pandemics and Society (PIPPS) to develop engaging learning experiences that enhance both science and math curricula. Recognizing the importance of supporting educators, Geneskool also offered students professional development opportunities through conferences and partnerships such as the University of British Columbia’s (UBC) Community Field Experience program.

An annual highlight of Genome BC’s communications initiatives is the Don Rix Distinguished Keynote Address. In 2023, the event featured Canadian anthropologist and ethnobotanist Dr. Wade Davis, who discussed the exploration of Indigenous cultures and their invaluable contributions to our understanding of the world. His talk was also about how genetics/genomics was, in his mind, the greatest scientific accomplishment and outcome of our time. The 2023 DRDK drew over 400 people, including students from the Geneskool program who attended a special Q&A session with Dr. Davis.

Podcasting: Engaging the Public in Scientific Dialogue

In addition to outreach through education programs and events, Genome BC launched season three of our award winning Nice Genes! Podcast. Season three set new highs in listenership and downloads. Air Canada also added the podcast to its in flight entertainment system, allowing travellers to learn about genomics both nationally and internationally.

Exploring Opportunities and Challenges

This year, sessions were held with policymakers and researchers on the themes of food security, genetic counselling and environmental DNA (eDNA). The policy foresight method was used to anticipate the potential consequences of policy decisions surrounding future oriented technologies. This concept was applied to genomics at a workshop in collaboration with the Canadian Institute for Society, Belief & Culture. A follow up symposium was also held at the University of Victoria.

Helping Healthcare Professionals Partner with Patients

Science outreach extends beyond the public. Equally important is equipping healthcare providers with the knowledge and skills they need to integrate genomics into patient care. Throughout the past year, Genome BC’s Genomics Education for Health Professionals (GEHP) program played a vital role in achieving this goal.

A webinar co-hosted with Cardiac Services BC, “Heart-to-Heart: Discussing the Future of Cardiovascular Genetics Care in BC” addressed the policy and clinical aspects of genomics in heart health. The event led to continued conversations between many different healthcare departments that are too often siloed (primary care, cardiac specialists, lab services, etc.). This cross-functional engagement is needed to provide optimal patient care.

Over the last year, the Genetic Assessment and Testing Care Pathway resource, available as a clinician tool on Pathways BC, has been used by healthcare providers in every health authority as a roadmap on how to access publicly available genetic services. Genome BC continues to work with our clinical partners to refine the information for genetic assessments, enabling efficient and consistent care for patients across the province.

Precision health has gone from being a service offered at specialized clinics to an essential component of everyday healthcare. The Nurse Practitioner Excellence in Genomics Education pilot project, launched with Thompson Rivers University, the University of Northern British Columbia and the University of British Columbia, is an innovative online program that equips BC nurse practitioners with the skills they need to use modern genetic and genomic technologies in clinical care settings.

Our commitment to science outreach empowers informed decision making by fostering public understanding, ethical discussions and knowledge transfer to health professionals. This paves the way for a healthier future and ensures that all British Columbians benefit from these advancements.

This article appears in Genome BC’s 2023/24 Annual Report. View the whole report here.

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