Venter Institute Hosts Press Conference to Unveil Results from Global Ocean Sampling Expedition

WHAT:

A press conference with live web cast announcing the results from the Sorcerer II Global Ocean Sampling (GOS) Expedition. Researchers, led by J. Craig Venter, PhD, circumnavigated the globe on a two year sailing research expedition and have discovered millions of new genes, thousands of new protein families and have greatly expanded our understanding of microbial biodiversity through genomic analysis. Results will be published in PloS Biology and cover sampling from Halifax, Nova Scotia through the Eastern Tropical Pacific.

This research will enable better understanding of the ocean environments by a more thorough analysis and characterization of the microbial life contained there. This is only now possible with advances in genomics. Microbes make up the majority of life on the planet and are responsible for most biological processes that sustain life. Thus, understanding this vast unseen world is crucial for maintaining and enhancing the health of the planet.

WEBCAST:

http://www.visualwebcaster.com/thepressclub_VenterGOS_031307

WHEN:

March 13, 2007
10- 11 a.m. EST

WHERE:

National Press Club, First Amendment Lounge
529 14th St. NW , 13th Floor - Washington, DC 20045

WHO:

Speakers and/or special guests at the press conference include:

• J. Craig Venter, PhD, Founder and Chairman, J. Craig Venter Institute
• Co-authors and international collaborators from the GOS Expedition
• Representatives from funding organizations: U.S. Department of Energy and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation
• Representatives from PLoS Biology

CONTACT:

Heather Kowalski
Cell: 202-294-9206
hkowalski@venterinstitute.org