Significance of the Institute’s Work
Activities of the Institute are significant for
the wider B&H society in numerous ways. Some facts are of particular
importance:
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Developments in the field of molecular genetics and genetic
engineering worldwide justified the original motive for the
establishment of the Institute. Particularly, it pertains to the fields
of food technology, medicine, pharmacy, forestry and horticulture,
metallurgy and environmental protection. Despite unfavourable
circumstances in the past, biotechnology based genetic engineering in
still the segment of general technology where B&H follows in the steps
of modern world.
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INGEB has substantial personnel and research potential in the
areas of biology, biomedicine, biotechnique and biotechnology which
justifies scientific and social interest in its further advance. Through
completion of several international scientific projects a core research
team, that is capable for wide array of research approaches, was
established.
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INGEB possesses highly sophisticated equipment, widely
applicable in various multidisciplinary research in genetic engineering
and molecular biology. During 1992-1995 war in B&H major peaces of the
equipment were preserved, however they required specialist repairs and
replacement of obsolete models. Considering the costs involved, the
concentration of such equipment in one facility is the only rational
solution.
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Among the original motivations behind the establishment of
INGEB is the need for a competent B&H institution that is able to
monitor development of biotechnology worldwide, filter out and adopt
acceptable components and coordinate biosafety system. Also, the role of
INGEB also includes independent development of selected areas of genetic
engineering based biotechnology that are relevant for B&H science and
economy.
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INGEB is the unique institution of science with necessary human
resources, technical and other conditions required for education in the
fields of genetic engineering and biotechnology at all the level of
studies. B&H HEI do not hire professional scientist that engage in
research full time. Therefore, general INGEB potentials represent the
most competent basis of HE that are at the disposal to all interested
HEI and other institutions in B&H. Thus, rational integration of
scientific and educational functions of INGEB as well as its flexible
integration into general system of scientific and educational process in
B&H are accomplished.
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In addition to its primary function of scientific research,
INGEB has developed human and technical basis for expert activities in
various areas of human interest: medical diagnostics, forensic and
medico-legal practice as well as quality control of food, medications,
cosmetics, detergents and protective agents.
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INGEB activities are important components within networks of
national and international cooperation in science and technology as well
as the transfer of knowledge in biotechnology. Thus, based on our own
initiative and wider recognition of our associates, B&H became a party
to the relevant UN system, and INGEB became formal ICGEB (International
Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology) affiliate centre.
