Dubai Police formed a strategic partnership with Oxford Nanopore Technologies to boost forensic science, genomics education, and research efforts. Oxford Nanopore Technologies, headquartered in Oxford, UK, provides advanced DNA sequencing solutions for various scientific and medical applications worldwide. The collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by officials from both organizations in Dubai.
Major General Ahmad Thani Bin Ghalita represented Dubai Police and signed the MoU on behalf of the forensic department. Phil Watkins, Vice President of Finance at Oxford Nanopore Technologies plc, signed the agreement representing the UK-based company.
Major General Bin Ghalita said the MoU confirms Dubai Police’s strong focus on research, development, and knowledge-sharing initiatives. He stated the partnership will improve laboratory performance and boost forensic department capabilities within the Dubai Police framework. He emphasized that scientific collaboration is essential for modernizing and expanding Dubai’s forensic and criminology capabilities.
Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Mohamed Almarri heads the Genome Centre under Dubai Police’s General Department of Forensic Sciences and Criminology. Dr. Almarri stated the agreement will help introduce advanced genomics tools into Dubai Police’s forensic workflows and labs. He highlighted the collaboration strengthens Dubai Police’s leadership in using innovative technology in forensic investigations and criminal science.
Tonya McSherry, Vice President Commercial EMEAI at Oxford Nanopore, shared her enthusiasm about collaborating with Dubai Police’s forensic experts. She said Oxford Nanopore will support Dubai Police through its cutting-edge, accessible DNA sequencing technology and training programs. McSherry emphasized that rapid and precise DNA analysis will help protect public safety and strengthen national health security frameworks. She added that combining Oxford Nanopore’s innovations with Dubai Police’s experience will transform forensic and public health practices.
The MoU outlines collaborative training programs in genomics, nanopore sequencing, and technical knowledge transfer between the two organizations. These efforts aim to develop technical expertise and promote scientific innovation in both public health and forensic fields. Joint initiatives will support continuous learning, research excellence, and high-tech adoption in Dubai’s forensic laboratories. This partnership marks a significant leap in using advanced genomics to enhance justice, safety, and healthcare capabilities.
