PDO backing for DNA research lab
PDO is funding the purchase of equipment for The Research Council, for an advanced National Laboratory in DNA studies
MUSCAT: A project to establish a National Laboratory in DNA studies has been announced by PDO and The Research Council.
Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) is backing The Research Council (TRA), with the aim to increasing the country’s capabilities in DNA analysis.
The company is purchasing equipment for TRA, for an advanced National Laboratory in DNA studies.
PDO will also provide equipment for the Oman Innovation Hall in Sinaw, including robotic, electronic and IT devices to support children’s learning in subjects like Mathematics, Computer Studies, Biology and Geology.
The commitments are part of the existing social investment Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), which PDO signed with a number of government and municipal dignitaries.
The official ceremony took place under the auspices of Salim Al Aufi, undersecretary of the Ministry of Oil and Gas.
PDO Managing Director, Raoul Restucci, said, “PDO is widely known as a pioneer of new technology and innovation in the oil and gas sector and beyond.”
Scientific learning support
“We are keen to support the spread of scientific learning at all levels of society—from our leading research institutions to our community schools. This is vital if Oman is to bridge the gap between academia and industry needs and make further progress in this rapidly changing world.”
The equipment purchased by PDO will go to the Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resource Centre, which is aiming to establish a temporary gene bank for DNA research. It will support the collection of data, tissue samples and DNA from animals, plants, microorganisms and various marine species for multidisciplinary research. It can also be used for human diseases and cancer studies.
This will cut the cost of outsourcing and repetitive lab work, and provide DNA analysis services and capability-building opportunities for students, academics, specialists and national institutions. PDO will provide a range of hi-tech devices for the Oman Innovation Hall, a popular venue for schoolchildren, including desktop computers, highdefinition virtual reality technology, 3D glasses and printers, audio kits, a smart interactive board, a projector and a recorder.
As part of its ongoing educational efforts, PDO is building an extension to Hamra Adduru’a school in the Wilayat Ibri and piloting a “Little Volunteering” programme to give students the leadership and communication skills to volunteer in their schools and their wider communities.