| Abstract: |
The science of understanding how biological systems operate and interact with one another (the biosciences) is increasingly important to global prosperity and quality of life. As the world s population grows, so will the need for more efficient and sustainable ways to grow food, keep people healthy, produce energy, and manufacture biological drugs, therapeutics, and chemicals. These advances can only be realized by gaining a deeper understanding of how biological systems operate-an understanding that depends on advancing the state of the art in biosciences measurement. Despite major breakthroughs and discoveries in recent years, our understanding of biological systems still faces many challenges. Biology is an informational science that depends on accurate measurements and standards. Whether quantifying the amount of protein in a cancer cell or the rate at which an organism converts sugar to alcohol, measurements are the foundation for improving our understanding of biological systems. To identify measurement challenges in the biosciences, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute (UMBI) co-hosted an international conference, Accelerating Innovation in 21st Century Biosciences: Identifying the Measurement, Standards, and Technological Challenges, on October 19-22, 2008, in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Attended by leading bioscience professionals from all over the world, this landmark event was a first-time opportunity to discuss the global measurement and standards challenges to innovation in key bioscience areas. Bioscience practitioners with diverse backgrounds met to share the views of international policymakers, create opportunities for networking and collaboration, and discuss opportunities and challenges. |
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