KARACHI: Speakers at a conference held at the Aga Khan University (AKU) on Wednesday discussed emerging paradigms in drug delivery, gene therapy and cellular engineering, as well as advances in metabolic and cancer research, suggesting ways to translate research into practical solutions for the country’s most pressing health and development challenges.

The 5th Annual Biological Sciences Conference was organised by AKU’s department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences.

Held under the theme “Innovation, Translation, and Impact”, the conference convened a diverse group of researchers, faculty, students and partners.

The discussions centred on advancements that are vital not just for improving health outcomes but also for contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to good health, quality education and gender equality.

The programme highlighted the transformative role of science in addressing some of the most pressing health challenges of our time.

Dr Kulsoom Ghias, chair of the department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, reflected on the vision of AKU’s Founder, the late Aga Khan IV, noting his belief in research that improves lives.

She also paid tribute to Dr Camer Vellani, drawing on the well-known phrase “standing on the shoulders of giants” to emphasise the importance of building on the work of visionary leaders in science and education.

“Without a strong foundation in basic sciences, tackling larger challenges in medical sciences would be impossible,” said Dr Karim Damji, Dean of AKU’s Medical College, Pakistan.

Published in Dawn, October 3rd, 2025