Research is in our DNA
Masaryk University is a modern institution with multidisciplinary approach to education and research. Ten faculties and two specialized research institutes provide for a wide range of research topics. In addition to cybersecurity, brain and mind research and the impact of toxic substances on the environment, our priorities also include genetic research.
Improving medical diagnostics
Genetic research carried out at the Faculty of Science MU, Faculty of Medicine MU and CEITEC, the Central European Institute of Technology, focuses on the study of human genome. New genome editing technologies and related analyses help to improve the diagnostic accuracy and tailor the follow-up care to individual patient needs.
Exploring Mendel’s genome
Masaryk University conducts unique archaeological, anthropological and genetic research to discover new information about the founder of genetics. The research has revealed above-average capacity of Mendel’s brain, which together with his scientific results testifies to his genius.
Organizing the Mendel Genetics Conference
During 20 to 23 July 2022, Masaryk University will welcome scientists from all over the world for an international interdisciplinary conference organized in honour of the 200th birth anniversary of the “father of genetics”.
Also presented at EXPO
What does the CEITEC centre of excellence focus on?
CEITEC is a multidisciplinary centre of research excellence with the most advanced research infrastructure in Central Europe. CEITEC connects seemingly distant research disciplines such as nanotechnology, material engineering, molecular biology, biomedicine and cybernetics. The centre invests into talents from all over the world and trains globally competitive researchers in an interdisciplinary scientific community.
What is new about the world-famous scientist?
The research of Mendel’s coffin and remains brought several new findings regarding his appearance. It turned out that Mendel wore complete dentures. Whereas the average brain capacity for men is 1,350 cubic centimetres, Mendel's was approximately 1,580 cc. The anthropologists found out that Mendel was about 167 cm tall and wore shoes size 42.
Approximately 70% of Mendel’s genome has been reconstructed and the present research tries to ascertain whether his DNA contained any of the gene variants that are known to cause hereditary diseases inherited according to the principles discovered by Mendel.
What topics will be discussed at the conference?
The international Mendel Genetics Conference is a tribute to the life and work of Gregor Johann Mendel, the founder of genetics, whose 200th birth anniversary will be celebrated on the opening day of the conference. The conference will address current topics in human genetics with a focus on rare hereditary diseases and tumour predisposition syndromes, as well as animal and plant genetics, including the issue of GMO or genetics of bacteria and viruses. Prominent international scientists will also discuss ethical issues related to the diagnosis and screening of genetic diseases or the application of new genomic technologies in medicine and agriculture.
Conference topics
- Human genetics (inherited diseases, cancer genetics, gene therapies)
- Plant genetics, animal genetics, the genetics of microorganisms
- Emerging technologies in genetic research
- Ethical questions in genetics
- Genetics and society
- The history of genetics: research of the life and legacy of G. J. Mendel
Registration: 31 January 2022 – 30 June 2022