With the advent of the genomics era, the life sciences have entered a new stage. New developments in genomics will significantly influence the way in which we perceive and
interact with our world, e.g., with regard to
health and environmental issues. At the same
time, society influences the way the life
sciences develop.
The relationship between the life sciences and society is complicated and constantly changing, and it is here that the CSG Centre for Society and the Life Sciences has its focus.
CSG was founded in 2004 with a mission to study, assess and improve the relationship between genomics and society. CSG engages society by means of social research, interaction, dialogue and education. It strives to develop novel and effective methods for communicating scientific issues to the public and to improve existing forms of communication and education on life sciences.
Research projects are carried out in close association with stakeholders, including life scientists, NGOs and companies. Projects are multi-disciplinary, with contributions from the social studies of science, philosophy, sociology, biology, educational sciences, law studies and social psychology. In the period from 2008 to 2013, CSG initiates and manages over 50 projects at universities across the country. CSG projects have increased insight into areas such as intellectual property of genetic material, ethical and legal aspects of biobanks and life sciences education at secondary schools.
In addition, CSG’s research has assisted other Genomics Centres to clarify their societal environment. CSG research also supports general practitioners and pediatricians in diagnosing patients with heritable diseases, and policy-makers in designing healthcare policies in the genomics era. CSG manages the DNA-labs on the Road, an initiative of NGI and eight Genomics Centres, for secondary school students (aged 15-18). CSG also takes the lead role in managing the educational website www.allesoverdna.nl.
CSG’s projects and activities play an important role in setting the agendas of life sciences research and other stakeholders. Its work is central in initiating dialogue and debate about upcoming concerns and issues.
DNA Labs on the Road
The DNA Labs on the Road establish a bridge between education and the latest scientific insights. In the six labs, pupils carry out practical experiments using advanced technologies that are not available at schools. www.dnalabs.nl (in Dutch only)
Website on genomics
www.allesoverDNA.nl website answers a range of questions concerning DNA: What is DNA? What are genes? What is DNA sequencing? It is
a source of information on research into DNA, heredity and genes of people, animals, plants and microorganisms. www.allesoverDNA.nl
(in Dutch only)
Additional information
CSG Centre for Society and the Life Sciences factsheet
Websites
www.society-lifesciences.nl
www.allesoverDNA.nl (in Dutch only)
www.dnalabs.nl (in Dutch only)
www.ditisbiotechnologie.nl (in Dutch only)