We showcased ONT sequencing devices, including the GridION, alongside sequencing workflows and library preparation processes at the institute of Genomics and Health Symposium.
Aziz Haj (Partner of ONT), Osman Tariq (Senior Sales Director of ONT), Oladipo Olive (Customer Support Officer of The GeneLab Bioscience French).
The GeneLab Bioscience participated as an exhibitor at the three-day Genomics and Health Symposium 2026, held at the Institute of Genomics and Global Health (IGH), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria. Convened under the theme “Shaping the Future of Epidemic Preparedness and Response in Africa,” the symposium welcomed participants, researchers, public health professionals, academic institutions and biotechnology companies to explore how genomics can improve disease surveillance, research and outbreak preparedness.
The symposium provided a valuable platform for us to showcase the capabilities and applications of modern sequencing technologies. Through these interactions, we identified potential areas for future collaboration, including sequencing services, laboratory capacity development and specialized training.
Showcasing Oxford Nanopore Sequencing Technology.
The GeneLab Bioscience as an official channel partner for Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) across West African countries, we showcased ONT sequencing devices, including the GridION, alongside sequencing workflows and library preparation processes at the Institute of Genomics and Health Symposium.
At the exhibition booth, our team introduced visitors to the sequencing devices, demonstrated key aspects of the sequencing workflow and explained the processes involved in sample preparation, library preparation, sequencing and data generation. We also engaged visitors in discussions about the practical applications of Oxford Nanopore technology, its potential to support outbreak investigations, genomic research and laboratory diagnostic research.
Participation delivered value beyond product visibility. It created the opportunity to build relationships with potential customers, research collaborators and institutional partners. Discussions with attendees provided useful insight into the challenges laboratories face when adopting sequencing technologies and where we come in.
Applying Genomics to Infectious Disease Surveillance.
A major practical application of sequencing technology is infectious disease surveillance. In the African context, where diseases such as Lassa fever, Ebola, cholera, mpox and influenza continue to pose significant public health challenges, sequencing technologies offer valuable opportunities to strengthen pathogen surveillance. For example, during Ebola and Lassa fever outbreaks, genomic sequencing can help researchers characterize circulating viral strains, investigate genetic changes and possible transmission patterns.
Beyond infectious disease surveillance, we also highlighted the broader research applications of ONT sequencing, including DNA methylation analysis; a chemical modification involved in regulating gene activity and plays an important role in regulating gene expression without changing the underlying DNA sequence.
Supporting Africa’s Genomics Capacity.
The engagements and discussions throughout the symposium highlighted the growing need for accessible sequencing technologies, well-equipped laboratories and skilled professionals who can translate genomic data into meaningful research and public health outcomes.
We recognise that strengthening Africa’s genomics ecosystem requires more than access to technology; it also demands sustained investment in laboratory infrastructure, knowledge transfer, technical capacity development and collaboration among researchers, institutions and industry partners.
Contact The GeneLab Bioscience today to learn more about our products and how we can support your research and laboratory operations.