"The field of genetics is moving at an astounding pace and it behoves all who are associated with sport to stay abreast of the scientific developments and gain knowledge of how genetics will, and in-fact is, affecting the sport industry." This is the view of SKA Programme Director Dr Paul Jonson who has introduced a new offering onto the curriculum designed to confront emerging issues titled 'Genetic Doping – the Facts & the Future'

A broad cross-section of the sport industry – CEOs, coaches, trainers, player associations and government bodies have been invited to the genetics seminar which will be hosted at Sydney Olympic Park on 27 July.

They will join other attendees invited from the fields of science, academia, media and law, along with representatives of the pharmaceutical industry.

Jonson, says the intention of the Genetic Doping seminar is to inform as well as to stimulate debate among the constituents of sport. He says, "The face of genetics and their impact on sport is constantly changing."

"With this seminar, we are setting out to present the most up-to-the-minute information to sports and related industries that share a common interest in monitoring the science and application of genetics in sport."

"The seminar will also offer a valuable platform for attitude-sharing among constituents."

Those attending the seminar will emerge with knowledge of the most recent scientific breakthroughs from the world of genetics and their current and potential application.

Whether for better, or worse, the science of genetics is set to have a major impact on athletes, trainers, coaches and administrators. As former Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) researcher Robin Parisotto, an expert on doping in sport, and a key presenter, noted in his recently published book "Blood Sports" some athletes - acting as guinea pigs – are content to risk death for a winning edge bringing the concept of the artificially modified athlete another step closer to creation.

Parisotto will be joined by leaders from around Australia in the areas of genetic research, gene doping, policy and ethics in sport. These presenters will both highlight the dangers posed by genetics and outline the potentially more socially-palatable benefits available to sport from genetic research and testing.

Please click here for more info on the Genetic Doping in Sport seminar