Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ page provides answers to common questions about collaborating with the National Gene Bank of Egypt, accessing genetic resources, and understanding policies and compliance standards. Whether you are a researcher, institution, or partner, find the information you need here.
Collaboration & Partnerships
NGB collaborates with universities, research institutions, and government entities through research agreements, joint projects, training programs, and genetic resource exchange. Interested organizations should submit a formal proposal outlining objectives and expected outcomes.
Yes, institutions can request access to genetic materials such as seeds, plant samples, and microbial cultures for research and breeding, subject to compliance with national regulations and international treaties. Requests must include a clear research purpose and ethical approval where required.
NGB does not directly fund external projects but can partner on grant-funded research initiatives through local and international funding bodies. Collaborators are encouraged to seek funding opportunities where NGB can act as a scientific partner.
NGB welcomes partnerships for capacity-building programs, workshops, and knowledge-sharing events. Organizations can propose topics related to biodiversity, genetic conservation, and biotechnology. NGB provides subject matter experts, training facilities, and practical lab sessions.
Genetic Resources & Data Access
NGB conserves a wide range of plant, animal, and microbial genetic resources, including local crop varieties, rare plant species, livestock breeds, and microbial strains for agricultural use. These resources support food security, scientific research, and breeding programs.
NGB maintains a genetic resource database with documented information on biodiversity, species characteristics, and seed viability. Researchers can request access to specific datasets for scientific studies, subject to approval and data-sharing policies.
Yes, all genetic material must be used exclusively for research, conservation, or breeding as per NGB's access and benefit-sharing agreements. Commercial use may require additional approvals, and intellectual property regulations must be followed.
Yes, NGB provides genetic analysis, characterization, and cytogenetic studies upon request. Institutions can collaborate with NGB’s specialized labs for molecular genetics, phytosanitary testing, and biochemical profiling of plant and animal species.
Policies, Standards & Compliance
NGB follows national biodiversity laws and international treaties such as the Nagoya Protocol and FAO Genebank Standards to ensure ethical and legal use of genetic materials. Partners must sign material transfer agreements (MTAs) to access genetic resources.
NGB employs ex-situ conservation techniques, seed banking, cryopreservation, and genetic monitoring to prevent biodiversity loss. It also works on intellectual property protection to safeguard national genetic assets from unauthorized use.
Generally, NGB provides genetic resources for non-commercial research and breeding. Commercial use requires governmental approval and compliance with intellectual property laws to ensure benefit-sharing with Egypt’s biodiversity conservation programs.
NGB adheres to International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) and FAO Genebank Standards to ensure high-quality genetic material storage. All seed viability tests, phytosanitary measures, and storage conditions comply with global best practices.