The aims of the project “Strengthening the Role of Genomics and Global Health” are to help ensure that developing countries share in the social and economic benefits of the genomics revolution, to help prevent the emergence of a “genomics divide” between developed and developing countries and to address current inequalities in global human health.

Some of the approaches taken by this international research team include gathering information from genomics and biotechnology companies in developing countries to study how these entities may be able to contribute to the development of technologies that specifically meet local health needs. In addition, the team is examining existing collaborations in genomics and biotechnology among developing countries. The team is also studying the implications of the emerging trend to apply knowledge of human genomic variation among population groups to understand disease susceptibility and drug response. Finally, the team is documenting knowledge management strategies, with specific reference to genomics, for the promotion of long-term food security in developing countries.

The information gathered and documented through these efforts will be publicly disseminated to influence policy and decision makers within government, the private sector, public organizations and foreign policy sectors.