M42 Environmental Sciences team brings home Middle East Technology Excellence Awards 2024 for cutting-edge research technologies

Pioneered marine conservation through advanced genomic sequencing and artificial intelligence.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, M42, a global health leader powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and technology, has been honoured with the prestigious Middle East Technology Excellence Awards 2024 in the Biotechnology - Environmental Services category for its focus on advanced genomic sequencing, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven data analysis, and AI-powered mapping technologies that align with the United Arab Emirates’ sustainability goals in enhancing marine exploration and conservation.

Amongst its initiatives is the deployment of Oxford Nanopore Technologies' PromethION sequencer on Jaywun Vessel of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, for real-time, high-throughput sequencing (HTS) of marine samples, including whole-fish and environmental DNA (eDNA). It has also developed and implemented a comprehensive programme for fish DNA detection and taxonomic profiling.

Moreover, the M42 Environmental Sciences Team has achieved scientific milestones with the identification of eight new invertebrate species that have contributed significantly to the global biodiversity knowledge base and the completion of atmospheric research expeditions, which provide crucial insights into ozone formation and air quality.

It has also collected and sequenced DNA from 16 whole-fish and 355 marine water samples, showcasing its ability to perform HTS offshore. At the same time, it has implemented efficient onboard eDNA sampling, DNA extraction, and sequencing, enhancing data collection accuracy and efficiency.

To foster local expertise in marine research and conservation, M42 has also trained nine UAE nationals for over 3,000 hours and promoted regional scientific collaborations that have enhanced knowledge sharing and capacity building.

M42’s initiative represents a significant leap in marine research and conservation, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and fostering collaborations. “By pushing the boundaries of marine research and setting new standards in biotechnology and environmental science, our company is pioneering efforts in marine exploration and conservation and is delighted to be recognised for this with the prestigious award in this category,” it said.

In the future, the company plans to use MetaMaps for improved taxonomic classification and create a specialised fish species database to enhance species prediction accuracy. It also aims to expand the research scope to include oceanic blue carbon assessments, deep-water habitat mapping, and surveys on marine megafauna and invasive species.

The Middle East Technology Excellence Awards honour pioneers of technological innovation in the region who have significantly contributed to the pursuit of excellence within the industry. It also celebrates companies, initiatives, and leaders who have used advanced technologies to improve business outcomes.

The Middle East Technology Excellence Awards is presented by Asian Business Review Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2025 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's outstanding contributions in pursuit of technological innovation, please contact Danica Avila at [email protected].