Milner Institute hosts official opening of new Functional Genomics Screening Laboratory

  • Published 25 March 2025
Milner Institute hosts official opening of new Functional Genomics Screening Laboratory

Last week, we were delighted to launch the new Functional Genomics Screening Laboratory (FGSL) at the Milner Therapeutics Institute in Cambridge, UK.

The new lab will support world-class research and innovation in the rapidly advancing field of functional genomics, which explores links between genes and disease.

Key representatives from the three FGSL partners – the Medical Research Council (MRC), AstraZeneca and the University of Cambridge – gathered for a ribbon-cutting and launch reception to mark the official opening of this highly anticipated facility.

Delegates enjoyed speeches from our Director Sir Tony Kouzarides, Senior Vice President of Discovery Sciences at AstraZeneca Steve Rees OBE, and Executive Chair of the Medical Research Council Professor Patrick Chinnery. Their remarks gave insights into the background of the FGSL, the benefits of cross-sector collaboration and how this initiative fits with the vision and ambitions of each partner.

The FGSL is part of the UK Human Functional Genomics Initiative, contributing to the UK’s ambition of having the most advanced genomic healthcare system in the world. The robotics and other equipment present in the new laboratory are state-of-the-art for arrayed CRISPR screening, enabling screens to be offered from 10s to 100s of genes through to whole genome.

 

Read the full press release here