Genetic doping: Designing gold medals in the lab

Is it possible to manipulate athletes’ genomes to improve their performance? What are the consequences? How is it carried out? The World Anti-Doping Agency has confirmed that genetic doping already exists and has become the greatest threat to sport. The first tests to detect this type of doping took place at the Rio 2016 Olympics. The effects of this doping on athletes’ health are still unknown.

Biotechnologist and researcher in the field of genetic doping Julen Díaz will cover these issues at the talk & discussion entitled “Genetic doping: Designing gold medals in the lab”. Julen is currently working on the development of a method to detect this type of doping. The event will take place on 4th October in Azkuna Zentroa, and the lecture will be in Basque.

Zientziateka is a monthly initiative organised by the Chair of Scientific Culture of the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and Azkuna Zentroa to raise awareness of current scientific matters.

Tickets should be collected from the Azkuna Zentroa Information Point. Entry is free.