How we are structured
A growing functional genomics research network
The UK Human Functional Genomics Initiative is a growing and dynamic network. Coordinated from the University of Exeter, it currently includes four research clusters with a focus on different scientific areas. The clusters, based in universities across the UK, are collaborations between academics, clinicians, industry partners and other universities.
A new Functional Genomics Screening Laboratory (FGSL) has been established at the Milner Therapeutics Institute (MTI) in collaboration with AstraZeneca and the University of Cambridge, and a new Data Coordination Centre (DCC) is being established at the University of Exeter. Our research is dedicated to uncovering mechanistic insights into the causes of disease and delivering tangible benefits for patients.
Coordination Hub
Based at the University of Exeter, the hub has oversight of data co-ordination, funding and training opportunities while building collaboration between researchers and partners working in emerging areas of human functional genomics research. A team, led by the Initiative’s Director, Professor Jonathan Mill, works closely with research clusters, the Data Coordination Centre and the Functional Genomics Screening Laboratory. The hub team actively encourages engagement and collaboration across the Initiative and wider genomics research community, facilitating access to the models, tools and data developed.
Research Clusters
Our initial four research clusters are focusing on tackling disease development and treatment in musculoskeletal, neuronal and rare disease, as well as linking genomic wide association disease data with molecular disease mechanisms.
Our research clusters are currently:
Neurodevelopment Cluster
Led by King’s College London in partnership with Imperial College London and the Wellcome Sanger Institute, this cluster’s research focuses on understanding how genetic variants affect neurodevelopmental disorders.
Molecular Mechanisms Cluster
Led by the University of Edinburgh in partnership with Baillie Gifford Pandemic Science Hub and Generative AI Laboratory, this cluster’s research is investigating the molecular mechanisms of disease using human tissue, genetics and artificial intelligence.
Musculoskeletal Cluster
Led by the University of Oxford in partnership with Manchester University, Astra Zeneca, PrecisionLife, Lund University, Washington University and Geisinger Health, this cluster’s research focuses on understanding the role of genes in common musculoskeletal diseases and identifying new treatments.
Protein Post-Translational Modification (PPTM) Cluster
Led by Imperial College London in partnership with Queen Mary University and EMBL’s European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), this cluster’s research is investigating the impact of genetic variations on rare disease.
Functional Genomics Screening Lab (FGSL)
A new functional genomics screening laboratory uses cutting-edge technology to help scientists develop much-needed new diagnostics and treatments for patients. The FGSL is a joint venture between the Milner Therapeutics Institute at the University of Cambridge, the Medical Research Council (MRC) and AstraZeneca. The FGSL, a key part of the UK Human Functional Genomics Initiative, aims to combine know-how and experience to accelerate the development of biomarkers and therapeutics for diseases through functional interrogation of the genome at scale. The FGSL is a cutting-edge academia-industry collaboration that focuses on arrayed CRISPR screening in complex human in vitro models, offering an opportunity for academics to work with industry.
Data Coordination Centre (DCC)
Based at the University of Exeter the Data Coordination Centre will provide a platform for data sharing and developing novel tools for the analysis of functional genomic data. It will bring together expertise across the Initiative in Machine Learning, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. Building on our open science approach, we’ll collect, organise, and share data generated by the Initiative, ensuring it is findable, accessible, interpretable, and reproducible (FAIR) for a wide audience, including researchers, policymakers, and industry partners. The DCC will also facilitate interactions with other UKRI-funded initiatives, such as the National Mouse Genetics Network, and wider national and international genomics initiatives.
Governance
The Initiative is governed by an oversight committee, made up of independent scientific experts and representatives of the funders with advice from independent scientific advisory boards.
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We're an expanding network built on collaboration and open science.