UP Manila MD-PhD Scholars Visit ACRI for Science Immersion Program
On August 1, 2025, the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health – Center for Research and Innovation (ACRI) welcomed MD-PhD scholars from the University of the Philippines Manila’s Molecular Medicine Program as part of their annual Science Immersion Program organized by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD).
The Science Immersion Program is designed to broaden the horizons of its scholars by introducing them to a wide range of research and development (R&D) institutions across the country. More than a simple campus visit, the program allows future clinician-scientists to engage directly with researchers, scientists, and technical staff — providing firsthand exposure to the realities of working in scientific research. Through these interactions, the scholars gain deeper insights into how innovative ideas translate into tangible health solutions.
During their visit, the scholars were introduced to ACRI’s role as the dedicated research arm of ASMPH and its mission of advancing interdisciplinary and impactful research. They learned about ACRI’s five flagship programs and the institution’s diverse portfolio of past and ongoing initiatives in areas such as biotechnology, environmental health, health governance, mental health sciences, and ACRInnovations.
A highlight of the day was the tour of the newly established ACRI Laboratory, a Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) facility equipped for molecular biology and genomics research. Here, the scholars were introduced to cutting-edge equipment including a MinION Nanopore Sequencer for portable DNA/RNA sequencing, an RT-PCR system for gene expression and pathogen detection, a NanoDrop spectrophotometer for nucleic acid and protein quantification, and a Qubit fluorometer for sensitive DNA, RNA, and protein assays. These tools are essential for high-quality, high-impact research, and the visit provided the scholars with a glimpse of how they are used in actual research workflows.
Throughout the program, discussions naturally turned toward future opportunities for collaboration between ACRI and the Molecular Medicine Program. The visit not only showcased ACRI’s growing research capabilities but also underscored the importance of cross-institutional partnerships in building a stronger scientific community. By opening its doors to the next generation of researchers, ACRI reaffirms its commitment to fostering curiosity, collaboration, and innovation in health research.
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Heat Health Forum 2025: Strengthening Our Response to a Warming Philippines
Join the Heat Health Forum on May 15, 2025 at ASMPH Chang Te Hall, Ateneo de Manila University — a timely event bringing together health and climate experts, government agencies, and future professionals to address the rising health risks of extreme heat in the Philippines. Through expert discussions and collaborative breakout sessions, the forum aims to shape a unified national response and develop actionable strategies for protecting vulnerable populations. 📅 Date: May 15, 2025 📍 Venue: Chung Te Hall, Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health, Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City 💻 Access: Zoom 🔗 Register here: https://forms.gle/3RoQvNMPv5CcpKpG9 Be part of the conversation — and the solution.
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ACRI Biotechnology Flagship Program Completes Successful Nanopore Sequencing Training
The Ateneo Center of Research and Innovation's Biotechnology Flagship Program conducted a three-day genomics and sequencing workshop at the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health. Participants from research and academic departments received hands-on training with Oxford Nanopore's MinION portable sequencing device, covering lectures and practical experience in DNA library preparation and bioinformatics analysis.