About
Genomic Observatory is a 501 (c)(3) Nonprofit Research and Training Organization with a premise of promoting a culture of learning that generates opportunities through the exploration of the genome. In this age of DNA based content identification and personalized medicine there is an urgent need to expand this knowledge to a wider audience so that all may reap the available benefits.
Understanding the genome means understanding our health.
At Genomic Observatory, we embark on a journey through the intricate strands of DNA, exploring the co-evolution of genes, culture, and AI; driven by a commitment to critical thinking and participatory science. We invite students/citizen scientists to embark on their journey as HUMAN EXPLORERS, actively contributing to the unfolding narrative of what makes us human.
Our Mission
Promote a culture of learning that generates opportunities through the exploration of the genome; Inspire a new generation of leaders to Discover novel medical cures and Lead the society towards genomic awareness.
Our Vision
Genomic awareness serves the needs of people worldwide; A society of informed citizens prepared to cope in the genome era and advance human health.
Our Strengths
Critical Thinking
We value intellectual rigor and challenge conventional wisdom to contribute meaningfully to the discourse on genes and cultural co evolution.
Participatory Science
We believe in the power of hands-on research and education, inviting citizen scientists to explore their own path in the field of genomics and understand what it means to be human.
Innovation
We embrace innovation in methodologies and technologies, aiming to stay at the forefront of genomics research. We challenge conventional wisdom, constantly seeking innovative approaches to decipher the genetic code.
The Team
Nasreen S. Haque, Ph.D
Founder and CSO
Dr Nasreen S. Haque, Ph.D. is the Founder and CSO, of Genomic Observatory. Dr. Haque has over 23 years of teaching and research experience in molecular/cellular biology and biomedicine. She first got involved with marine research in 1989 and participated in a fish biodiversity expedition to India’s Laccadive Islands while on the faculty of the National Institute of Oceanography in Goa, India. Nasreen has been a Fellow of the Explorer’s since 2010 and has carried the Club Flag for the “Global Biodiversity” Expedition to Dwarka, India. Her discoveries in New York’s Gowanus Canal show promise for possible development into new medication and have attracted media attention in television news stories and in newspaper articles, including The New York Times. In addition, she has has developed programs to foster public education on the science of underwater exploration and microbial diversity in partnership with the World Science Festival, City University of New York and American Museum of Natural History.
Dr. Haque has been recognized as a “Notable Female Figure” by New York Medical College where her achievements has been highlighted as a pioneering women from NYMC for the identification of a novel cell type (mTregs)which has the potential to offer new therapies. Recently, in order to foster public understanding of biological concepts and its application in Well-Being and Happiness , she has created a participatory program “Evolutionary Map to Joy: A Human Explorer’s Guide” which is offered internationally. Her newsletter, “BioHumanism: decoding Humanity is in substack.
Niloufar Haque, Ph.D
President
Dr. Niloufar Haque is a Professor at the New York City college of Technology (CityTech) of the City University of New York. She is a neuroscientist has over 25 years of research and teaching experience in the biological sciences. She is recognized globally and has numerous publications in her field of research. She is devoted to student success which is demonstrated in her development and utilization of innovative learning programs such as the annual “Brain Awareness Day” and “Know your Body” that she organizes with students at CityTech. These popular programs have been proven to increase student awareness, retention and learning.
Bernie Chowdhury
Chief Operating Officer/ Secretary
Bernie Chowdhury, BA, has participated in scientific/research diving on three continents and is a member of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS).
He is best known for his critically acclaimed, international top-selling book, THE LAST DIVE, (non-fiction, HarperCollins, 2000) which has been published in eleven languages, an audio version and as an e-book; it is now in its 17th year in print. Bernie has been a diving instructor since 1988 and holds instructor ratings with the following agencies: DAN, PADI, NAUI, SDI, TDI.
He has been the publisher and/or editor of several diving magazines and is widely published.
Bernie is a popular and engaging speaker who has presented at conferences, dive shows, shops and clubs throughout the U.S., and overseas. He has made numerous radio and television appearances worldwide, and has been featured in newspaper and magazine articles internationally. Bernie has been a Fellow of the Explorers Club since 1995 and has carried the Club Flag on two expeditions. He has led and/or participated in ground-breaking expeditions in both wreck and cave diving.
He was a board-certified hyperbaric medical technologist (CHT-A) and held positions in several capacities in the hyperbaric medical field, including Course Training Director for the advanced wound care, hyperbaric medicine and life safety engineering conglomerate Life Support Technologies group, Tarrytown, NY.
Bernie was named Beneath the Sea’s 2001 Diver of the Year for Education.
In 2019, the New York State Marine Education Association presented Bernie with the Gene Ritter Aquatic Education Award for Extraordinary Service to Education.