20 November 2008

Relevant Events

Barcelona is to host the Spanish Lab of Genome Sequencing, Science and Innovation Minister, Cristina Garmendia, and Catalan president, José Montilla confirmed.

The future lab of genome sequencing is to carry out research on genetic alterations for about 50 different types of cancer. Investment has been estimated at 50 million euros over the next five years and is part of the requirements to participate in the International Consortium of the Cancer Genome. Funds will be allocated by Spain's central government and the Catalan authorities.

"It is difficult to ignore the leadership of Catalonia in genomic research," minister Garmendia said. In fact, Catalonia accounts for 92% of all Spanish studies in genomics, with Barcelona's Institute for Medical Research contributing with 37% of the Spanish Research. Other institutions with a strong participation in the field include the Center for Genomics Regulation (29%), the Universitat Pompeu Fabra (10%) and the Institute of Oncologic Research (10%).

Source: La Vanguardia, 19/11/2008