Keim provides expertise on the genetics of weaponized
pathogens
Phoenix, AZ, June 30, 2005 -- The Translational Genomics Research
Institute (TGen) today announced that Dr. Paul Keim, Director of
the institute's Pathogen Genomics Division, has been appointed to
the National Science Advisory Board for Biosecurity (NSABB), a
group of 25 experts who will assess issues of biosafety in life
sciences research.
The NSABB will provide advice, guidance and leadership regarding
biological research that has the potential for misuse and could
pose a threat to public health or national security. The NSABB will
advise all federal departments and agencies that conduct or support
life science research.
"Dr. Keim's groundbreaking research with lethal biological agents
like plague and anthrax allows him to bring a unique perspective to
the board," said TGen President and Scientific Director Dr. Jeffrey
Trent.
"I am honored to serve my country by providing insight and
expertise about potential biological threats," said Dr. Keim.
In addition to his appointment at TGen, Dr. Keim is a professor of
biology and Cowden Endowed Chair in Microbiology at Northern
Arizona University (NAU). Keim and his NAU team are involved with
protecting America against anthrax and other dangerous microbes by
analyzing deadly agents that may be used in a biological attack at
the genetic level. The group is also developing molecular
identification tools for public health related pathogens, which
cause illness in billions of individuals worldwide.
Dr. Keim's nomination was supported by members of the Arizona
Congressional delegation, including Senators Jon Kyl and John
McCain, and Representatives Rick Renzi, John Shadegg and J.D.
Hayworth.
"It is a fitting tribute for Dr. Keim to be appointed to this
biosecurity board," said Senator Kyl. "The appointment is testimony
to Dr. Keim's work with pathogen genomics and his expertise will
help positively shape the future of public health policy. His
efforts on the NSABB will impact all of the nation, as well as
TGen's research efforts."
"Dr. Keim has done a phenomenal job of collecting and studying
biological threats from around the world," said Arizona Congressman
Rick Renzi. "His appointment to the NSABB will help keep America
safe and secure, and bring acclaim to Northern Arizona
University."
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About TGen
The mission of the Translational Genomics Research Institute
(TGen) is to make and translate genomic discoveries into advances
in human health. Translational genomics research is a relatively
new field employing innovative advances arising from the Human
Genome Project and applying them to the development of diagnostics,
prognostics and therapies for cancer, neurological disorders,
diabetes and other complex diseases. TGen is focused on
personalized medicine and plans to accomplish its goals through
robust and disease-focused research programs and its
state-of-the-art bioinformatics and computational biology
facilities.
About Northern Arizona University
Northern Arizona University (NAU) has a student population of
about 18,000 at its main campus in Flagstaff and at 30 sites across
the state. NAU has earned a solid reputation as a university with
all the features of a large institution but with a personal touch.
NAU carefully balances teaching, scholarship and service with a
faculty and staff dedicated to each student's success. While our
emphasis is undergraduate education, we offer a wide range of
graduate programs and research that extend to such national
concerns as forest health and bioterrorism.
Media Contacts:
Galen Perry (602) 343-8423
Amy Erickson (602) 343-8522