The Microbial Sciences Building at University of Wisconsin’s campus was filled on Tuesday as the Department of Bacteriology hosted the Kenneth B. Raper Symposium.  Eight renowned researchers came together to share their work and its significance.  

The symposium was open to the public but focused on the science, agricultural and life sciences, microbiology and bacteriology departments at UW.

National Human Genome Research Institute director Eric Green began his talk by telling the audience about his background as a UW alum. 

Green discussed his research at the symposium. His work at the National Health Institute was focused on the Human Genome Project, which started in the 1990s to map and sequence the human genome. 

Given that genetics and DNA research are changing medicine, the human genome project is extremely important, Green said. The project yields incredible results, according to Green.

“1989 is referred to as an incredibly seismic year and not just because Taylor Swift was born,” Green said. “It was 1989 when the NHGRI was established and conclusive work began. Because of the work and findings done by researchers at the NIH, they were able to use results.”

Yet even after many years and extensive research there is still much unknown when it comes to the human genome. Despite crucial findings and after many years of extensive research, scientists are still surprised by genome sequences, Green said.

The continuation of not only research but curiosity is critical for furthering advancements in science and medicine, according to Green.

“I never thought I’d see progress [like this] in my professional life or time as director at NHGRI,” Green said.

Science and medicine are important not only in academics, but in people’s day to day lives. This research advances and saves lives, according to Green. 

Research is essential to seeing advancements in our understanding of health and medicine, according to Green.