09:00 - 15:30 EST
Personal Genomics, Personalized Medicine, & You
Advances in DNA sequencing technologies have greatly reduced the cost of whole genome sequencing and created fascinating new areas of study—personal genomics and personalized medicine. Empowered by recent technological advancements, scientists now have the ability to rapidly compare genetic alphabets of groups of people who show a particular trait with those that don’t. Direct-to-consumer (DTC) companies use this information to offer genotyping technology relatively inexpensively to the general public. Access to your personal genome enables you to identify genetic risk factors or inheritable disease markers you are carrying and can help you and your doctor choose the appropriate medications, dosages, and healthcare strategies. This course will expose medical librarians to info they can bring to their patrons (consumers, researchers, and clinicians), including breaking news, available online resources, the role of social media, and health-focused genetic testing and analysis services provided by DTC retail genomic firms. Participants will earn 4 MLA-approved CEU hours for completing this class.
Carrie Iwema, PhD, MLS, is an Information Specialist in Molecular Biology for the Health Sciences Library System, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.
Carrie Iwema has just started her 9th year as an Information Specialist in Molecular Biology for the Health Sciences Library System at the University of Pittsburgh. In this role she provides bioinformatics support and training for researchers, helping them to access and use specialized analytical tools and databases. She is also a member of the Data Management team and teaches classes on how to craft a data management plan, which led to her receiving a secondary faculty appointment with Pitt’s Clinical and Translational Science Institute. Also, Carrie created and runs a workshop series entitled “How-To Talks by Postdocs” that provides postdoctoral researchers an opportunity teach classes within the library. In addition to her library degree, Carrie has a PhD in Neuroscience and is a member of AHIP. She is actively involved in MLA and is currently the Chair-Designate for the Continuing Education Committee as well as a member of the Joint Planning Committee for MLA 2016 in Toronto. She is specifically in charge of Lightning Talks, so if you have any questions, feel free to ask her! Carrie has been teaching CE classes on Genetics for Librarians as well as Personal Genomics and Personalized Medicine since 2013.