The Wales Gene Park Education and Engagement team recently travelled to Japan to exhibit in the UK Pavilion during Expo 2025, Osaka.
The team joined colleagues from Oxford Nanopore and Willsow to showcase exciting innovations in the UK life sciences sector through interactive, hands-on activities.
‘We were delighted by how many people visited the Building Blocks of Life exhibit and how much engagement and interest there was in our genomics-focused stand, with over 2,900 people visiting the exhibit and families taking part in activities over the weekend,’ said Emma Hughes, Patient and Public Involvement Lead.
‘It was wonderful to see people of all ages getting excited about science and to feature Wales at the forefront of genomics innovation on a world-wide platform.’
The team also had the opportunity to showcase Genomics Partnership Wales and partners. This was achieved through issuing merchandise from the exhibit, alongside the placement of brand logos and website addresses throughout a rotating presentation in the UK Pavilion.
The team built new connections with the UK Science and Innovation team, the British Embassy in Tokyo and Welsh Government colleagues, as well as opening conversations with Universities in Japan.
Expo was a phenomenal experience, with positive feedback from partners and visitors alike. Carolyn Davidson, UK Commissioner General for the Expo, took part in the activities and said: “It was great to see so many people, young and old, relishing learning about genomics. I am very proud of my reindeer genetic sequence bracelet.”
Take a look at some of the photos from the trip to Japan or check out a short video produced for the event here – Video
