Hi FM

Listen
On Air Non-Stop Hits Alex Warren - Ordinary

First mobile lab for genetic resources research launched in Oman

Wednesday, 17 December 2025 21:11

Muscat – The sultanate’s first mobile research laboratory dedicated to genetic resources and life sciences was launched on Wednesday, marking a step towards enhancing field-based scientific research across the sultanate. The facility, spearheaded by the Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resources Centre (Mawarid), an entity of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, was […]

Muscat – The sultanate’s first mobile research laboratory dedicated to genetic resources and life sciences was launched on Wednesday, marking a step towards enhancing field-based scientific research across the sultanate.

The facility, spearheaded by the Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resources Centre (Mawarid), an entity of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, was launched under the patronage of H E Dr Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation.

The mobile laboratory is designed to deliver specialised laboratory services directly at research sites, particularly in areas lacking advanced infrastructure. By enabling on-site testing and sample preparation, the facility is expected to speed up research work while improving the quality and preservation of collected samples.

Equipped with advanced laboratory instruments, the mobile unit will be used to analyse samples of plant, animal, marine and microbial genetic resources. These include seeds of medicinal plants, wild and domesticated animals, marine organisms, microorganisms and fungi, supporting national conservation efforts and genetic research programmes.

The laboratory was developed over more than three years and involved the design and fitting of a specially adapted four-wheel-drive vehicle, installation of modern equipment, and several technical and operational testing phases. Officials said the facility has been designed to allow future upgrades in line with advances in genetic and life sciences research.

Mawarid is currently conducting field research projects across diverse environments in Oman, including mountains, deserts, plains and coastal areas. Ongoing studies include research on fungi in Dhofar and investigations into microorganisms collected from different regions of the country, highlighting the need for mobile laboratory capabilities.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Mohammed bin Nasser al Yahyai, Director of Mawarid, said the project reflects sustained efforts to strengthen national research capacity and expand scientific services across all governorates.

He said Oman’s geographical and environmental diversity offers high potential for research linked to food security, environmental sustainability and bio-based industries. The mobile laboratory, he added, will reduce sample loss caused by long transport times and allow analysis to begin immediately after collection.

Yahyai said Mawarid’s role extends beyond collecting genetic resources for their study, conservation and sustainable use, in line with national priorities and Vision 2040, which places research and innovation at the centre of future development.

Share

More from Muscat Daily Oman News

  • Heavy rain lashes Musandam governorate

    Musandam – Musandam Governorate experienced significant rainfall on Thursday, as a direct result of the current prevailing weather conditions across the region. Khasab and Bukha were particularly affected by heavy downpours which triggered the flow of several valleys and reefs. Meanwhile, the wilayats of Dibba and Madha recorded moderate rainfall. Local authorities continue to monitor […]

  • Oman launches first phase of unified government financial system ‘Maliyah’

    Muscat – Oman has officially inaugurated the first phase of its unified government financial system, known as ‘Maliyah’, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s digital transformation journey. Under the patronage of H E Sultan bin Salim al Habsi, Minister of Finance, the initiative aims to modernise financial procedures and enhance integration between various state […]

  • MHT issues warning amidst unsettled weather

    Muscat – Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has issued a formal notice to all specialised adventure tourism companies and operators regarding upcoming weather conditions. Following reports from the Civil Aviation Authority, several governorates are expected to experience significant atmospheric changes over the next 48 hours. Consequently, the Ministry has strongly advised companies, citizens, and […]

  • Strong wind and reduced visibility forecast for Oman

    Muscat – Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued an official alert regarding increased wind activity across most governorates of Sultanate beginning on the evening of Thursday, December 18, 2025. Initial meteorological reports indicate that southeasterly winds will prevail until Friday morning, before shifting to moderate-to-brisk northwesterly winds that are expected to persist for several days. […]

  • Jokha al Shukaili elected head of Arab higher education quality assurance body

    Muscat – Dr Jokha Abdullah al Shukaili, CEO of Oman Authority for Academic Accreditation and Quality Assurance of Education, was on Wednesday elected head of the Arab Network for Quality Assurance in Higher Education, with effect from January 1, 2026, for a period of four years. Jokha’s election caps up a professional career full of […]

  • Student left on school bus in Muscat sparks safety review

    Muscat – An incident on Monday in which a student was left inside a school bus in Seeb, Muscat has triggered public concern and renewed calls for stricter safety measures in school transportation. The Directorate General of Education in Muscat said it followed the case closely after footage circulated on social media. In a clarification […]

FM
Online
App