From January 1st, 2018 University of Tartu has a new Institute of Genomics, which was established by merging Estonian Genome Center and Estonian Biocentre (joined University of Tartu January 1st, 2018).
Institute of Genomics contributes to transdisciplinary research and application based on omics reseach and methods and also teaches University of Tartu students.
Institute of Genomics was established to promote greater synergy between genomic-based research, teaching and other scientific fields. This allows more effective collaboration with different research centres and universities and greater recognition among global scientific community. New institute also allows more effective use of infrastructure, competence, contacts and helps develop new partnerships with private sector.
Structure
Institute of Genomics is made up of four departments:
• Estonian Genome Center: Science Center gathers previous research groups of the University of Tartu Estonian Genome Center;
• Estonian Biocentre gathers previous research groups of the University of Tartu Estonian Biocentre;
• Core Facility Core facility operates the laboratory e.g. performing genotyping and sequencing and performs genetic data analysis;
• Estonian Genome Center collects genetic information about the Estonian population health and heridity, advances genetic research and applies findings in research in Estonian healthcare system.
From January 1st, 2018 Institute of Genomics is an independent institute, however, by January 1st, 2021 it will join the University of Tartu Faculty of Science and Technology. By the end of 2020, the board of Institute of Genomics will decide proposals for structural changes and by December 31st, 2020 a new name for the institute will be announced.