The 5th International Conference on Innovative Biological and Public Health Research (IBPHR-23) recently took place at Government College University Lahore. Hosted by the Department of Zoology, the conference aimed to promote research culture and collaboration in the field of Allied Medical sciences. Over 34 universities and Institutes of Higher Education Department participated in the event, which featured esteemed national and international speakers.

Prof. Dr. Asghar Zaidi, Vice-Chancellor of GC University Lahore during his speech praised young researchers for their contributions to public health and stressed the importance of their role. He also expressed pride in the presence of distinguished scientists from Pakistan and abroad at a two-day conference. This event provided a platform to showcase the impactful research of these accomplished scientists, inspiring and benefiting students. Dr Zaidi also said that despite challenges like limited resources and inadequate compensation, there has been a noteworthy increase in high-quality research.

The distinguished Chief Guest, Vice Chancellor of King Edward Medical University Prof. Dr. Mahmood Ayyaz, expressed his admiration for the significant role that scientific conferences play in advancing research and alleviating the burden of patients in the field of Allied Medical sciences.

During the ceremony, several individuals were honored for their outstanding contributions. The recipients of the "Dr. Nazir Ahmad Gold Medal," “Dr. NusratJahan Gold Medal,” and “Sabira Shafi Gold Medal” were recognized for their exemplary work in the field.

Following a panel discussion on the current status, challenges, and scope of Biological Research and Public Health in Pakistan, the need for collaboration between universities and better research facilities were highlighted. The session was moderated by Prof. Dr. Asghar Ziadi, who emphasized the translation of basic research into clinical applications and the provision of incentives for exceptional researchers.

The subsequent sessions featured lectures by renowned experts, covering diverse subjects including the role of herbs in bone-related diseases, the quality of data in scientific research, eco-system health in protected areas, entomology, microbiology, genetics, paleontology, wildlife, biodiversity, molecular biology, and biotechnology.

The conference's second day began with a joint session discussing the revolutionary health benefits of split gill mushroom, followed by talks on tropic interactions in agro-ecosystems, public health, fisheries and aquaculture, physiology, and phytomedicine.

The conference concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Prof. Dr. Muhammad Tahir, Chairperson of the Department of Zoology, who commended the organizing team of IBPHR-23 for the successful execution of the conference. Certificates were then distributed to members of the organizing committee.