The UK Human Functional Genomics Initiative Inaugural Scientific Symposium

The inaugural UK Human Functional Genomics Initiative Scientific Symposium took place at the University of Exeter on Monday 16th June 2025, marking a significant milestone in the effort to understand disease mechanisms through functional genomics.

The initiative aimed to decode the functions of every gene in the human genome and explore the functional consequences of disease-associated genetic variation. This approach promised to reveal critical insights that could drive the development of innovative treatments and interventions.

Operating as a collaborative network of academic institutions and industry partners, the initiative leveraged cutting-edge technologies and data science to accelerate discovery and improve human health on a global scale.

The symposium brought together leading experts from both academia and industry to share the latest advances in functional genomics. Attendees had a unique opportunity to learn, network, and collaborate on the future of genomics research.

Speakers included:

• Prof. Martin Kircher – University of Lübeck

• Dr Delphine Larrieu – Altos Labs, Cambridge

• Dr Ralda Nehme – Broad Institute

• Dr Lea Starita – University of Washington

• Dr Roser Vento-Tormo – Wellcome Sanger Institute

• Prof. Wendy Bickmore – University of Edinburgh

• Prof. Mina Ryten – University of Cambridge

The event also featured the unveiling of project funding and industry collaboration opportunities for academics at UK Higher Education Institutions. Applications for funding were announced in July 2025.

In support of early career researchers, the initiative announced upcoming travel and accommodation funding to promote inclusive participation across the research community.

The talks from the event are available to view below: