Dear Colleague,

The Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna is organizing the 14th International Biotechnology Symposium and Exhibition (14th IBS), at the new Palacongressi di Rimini – the largest and most technologically advanced congress centre in Italy - from September 14 to 18, 2010.

Under the auspices of IUPAC, the IBS series, held every two years on a different continent, is a premier international biotechnology event. The 14th IBS is promoted by the Italian and European Technology Platforms of the Life Sciences area together with EuropaBio, EFB, ISEB and ESEB.

The overall aim of 14th IBS is to explore the advances, frontiers and applications of biotechnology for a healthier and more sustainable future and a knowledge-based bio-economy all over the world, and to strengthen relations between industry, research laboratories, government agencies, the private sector and universities on such strategic issues for human sustainability.

A large participation of the international biotechnology industry, a dynamic and R&D-oriented programme, highly qualified speakers from academia, governmental institutions, and industry will be some of the major features of the event. Sessions specifically addressed to promote international R&D cooperation and the establishment of industry-academia consortia suitable also for European Framework Program applications will be organized. A significant part of the programme will be covered by oral presentations selected from submitted abstracts. In addition, special issues of very qualified journals published by Elsevier, who is helping to organize the event, are planned.

Low registration fees, awards for excellent young scientists together with low accommodation costs in Rimini and post-conference activities such as excursions to major Italian cities will facilitate the participation of all motivated colleagues and actors in the international biotechnology sectors. Sign up now for news updates at www.ibs2010.org to stay informed of all developments with the conference programme and organization.

Thus, in anticipation of meeting and working together on such challenging and crucial issues for our future, I extend to you a warm invitation to join us at the 14th IBS!

Sincerely,

Fabio Fava, Chair of the 14th IBS