The EASIGEN-DS project has officially launched, marking the first step toward establishing Europe’s largest and most advanced genomics research infrastructure. Coordinated by CNAG, this ambitious initiative brings together 13 leading genomics infrastructures from across Europe: CNAG, UKSH, CAU, KTH, CEA-CNRGH/FG, KULeuven, Charité, UTartu, RBI, SU, UU, MDC, and DKFZ. Together, they provide state-of-the-art genomic technologies to the research and clinical communities, with a combined sequencing capacity of over 500,000 human genomes per year. The project aims to create a pan-European network that will serve as the backbone for cutting-edge genomic services and innovations, accessible to all European countries.

 

The EASIGEN-DS consortium also includes expert partners with crucial expertise in data management (CRG), applied economics (CSIL), innovation (FhG-ISI), and bioethics (UT3). Together, the 17 institutions will lay the foundation for a Technology Platform offering genomic data generation and analysis services, and a Support Platform that will provide training, standardization tools, and consultancy to facilities across Europe, including those in widening countries. 
 
 
The official launch event took place on 12th and 13th February 2025, with a successful kick-off meeting hosted at CNAG.  During the meeting, consortium partners discussed key topics, including current needs and gaps in genomic research, the potential uniqueness of EASIGEN, stakeholder engagement, pathways for innovation, and strategies to support widening countries. Guest speakers from EATRIS, IBISBA, and ACTRIS shared their experiences in establishing large-scale European research infrastructures, providing valuable insights for the project’s success.
 
 
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101187908 HORIZON-INFRA-2024-DEV-01. The content reflects only the author’s view, and the Commission is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained herein.