MUSCAT : The Oman Center for Animal and Plant Genetic Resources (Mawarid), affiliated with the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, launched the Sultanate’s first mobile research laboratory dedicated to genetic resources and life sciences.

The pioneering national project was inaugurated under the patronage of Her Excellency Dr. Rahma bint Ibrahim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, and is designed to deliver advanced laboratory services directly to governorates across Oman, particularly areas lacking sophisticated research infrastructure.

It specializes in plant, animal, marine and microbial genetic resources, including medicinal plant seeds, wild and domesticated animal breeds, marine organisms, microorganisms and fungi, supporting conservation and genetic research efforts nationwide.

The design, equipping and testing of the four-wheel-drive laboratory vehicle took more than three years and included multiple technical and operational trials. The facility has also been developed with future upgrades in mind, allowing equipment and technologies to evolve in line with scientific advancements.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Mohammed bin Nasser Al-Yahyaei, Director of the Mawarid Center, said the laboratory reflects sustained national efforts to strengthen Oman’s scientific research ecosystem across all governorates. He highlighted the Sultanate’s exceptional environmental diversity, from mountains and valleys to deserts and marine ecosystems, as a vital source of knowledge, innovation and sustainable development.

He noted that the mobile laboratory will allow immediate analysis of samples while they are in optimal condition, enhancing research efficiency and supporting ongoing field projects in diverse environments, including specialized studies on fungi in Dhofar and microorganisms across several governorates.

Dr. Al-Yahyaei stressed that the initiative goes beyond collection, aiming to study, preserve and invest in genetic resources in ways that support scientific innovation, food security, environmental sustainability and the goals of Oman Vision 2040.

Moza bint Mohammed Al-Kharousi, Head of the Research Facilities Department at Mawarid, said the laboratory will also play a key awareness and community role through participation in scientific events and field visits to schools and universities, helping promote the importance of preserving genetic resources and their environmental and economic value.

She added that the mobile laboratory represents a qualitative leap for Oman’s research sector, accelerating scientific work and strengthening collaboration between research institutions and both the public and private sectors.

The inauguration ceremony, held at the Muscat Innovation Complex, also featured a specialized session titled “Research Laboratories and Their Scientific and Economic Role,” which discussed laboratory infrastructure, innovation, market-driven research outputs, partnerships, and future challenges related to financing, sustainability and international cooperation.

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