A new UK national genome centre has been officially opened today (3 July) by Nobel Laureate and genome pioneer Professor Sir John Sulston and the Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk.
The Genome Analysis Centre (TGAC) will further the UK's capacity in genomics - the science of understanding the genetic makeup of organisms and the genetic differences that exist between individuals. This knowledge can then be used for developments that include the production of new antibiotics to fight superbugs.
The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) has set up the £13.5m TGAC in Norwich in partnership with regional economic development partners - The East of England Development Agency (EEDA), Norfolk County Council, South Norfolk Council, Norwich City Council and the Greater Norwich Development Partnership.
"The UK is a world leader in genomics, which is increasingly essential to understanding how to tackle the challenges we face in fighting superbugs, food security and the development of eco-friendly fuels," said Science and Innovation minister Lord Drayson.
"The new centre will help to advance vital research as well as stimulate economic development and generate new jobs."
An independent advisory board, which will include members nominated by BBSRC and the economic partners, will decide initial projects to be worked on by TGAC. The successful handling and interpretation of the data will be critical to TGAC fulfilling its potential. To achieve this, TGAC will become a national centre of excellence in bioinformatics - the application of computer science and statistical analysis to biological research.
Dr Jane Rogers, director of TGAC, said: "The genomic analysis of microbes will be a major focus, not only because they infect both animals and plants, but because they are already a source of drugs for the treatment of bacterial and fungal infections and therefore they have the potential to provide new, superbug-beating antibiotics."
Brian Iles, cabinet member for economic development at Norfolk County Council, said: "The centre is estimated to generate £5m of revenue annually and create up to 750 highly-skilled local jobs in the next three to seven years."