Conference: Biobanking and Biodiversity Research San Diego Zoo (USA)

Training Scientists for Biobanking and Biodiversity Research
San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, Escondido, CA   U.S.A
October 13 – 17, 2014.


The 2nd Annual International Frozen Zoo® Cell Culture Seminar will
commence on October 13 and conclude on October 17 at the facilities of
the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, in Escondido,
California.

San Diego Zoo’s Frozen Zoo® is a premier collection of living
fibroblast cells from over 1,000 species of mammals, birds, reptiles
and amphibians.

Over five days, the course will provide participants with a “hands-on”
learning experience with experts specialized in establishing cell lines
for the Frozen Zoo®.   The course will provide the opportunity to gain
exposure to and experience with:

-     Lab safety and aseptic technique review

-     Taking biopsies and establishing cell cultures using enzyme
      digestion and solid tissue explant methods

-     Optimizing fibroblast cell culture for mammalian, avian, reptilian
      and amphibian species

-     Field method for viable freezing of skin biopsies in liquid
      nitrogen

-     Freezing fibroblast cell cultures

-     Metaphase chromosome harvesting, staining, banding and karyotyping

This course is designed to help scientists establish biomedical and
biotechnical research programs to initiate sampling of the genetic
diversity within their countries and starting their own collections
similar to the Frozen Zoo®.

The registration fee for the 2nd Annual International Frozen Zoo® Cell
Culture Seminar is $1,000.00.  This includes meals, transportation from
local lodging to the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research,
lab supplies, instruction materials, course workbook and protocols. Full
and partial scholarships are being offered and are sponsored by the
American Genetic Association, Special Project Award.

Due to limited space availability, an application process is required
for consideration.  If you are interested in attending please send an
email with 2014 FZCCS in the subject line to lwied@sandiegozoo.org.
Upon receipt, an application will be forwarded along with additional
information.  All applications are due by 11:59 P.M. (PST) on Friday,
July 25, 2014.  Anything submitted after this date will not be considered.