About GDI

The European Genomic Data Infrastructure (GDI) project aims to enable access to genomic and related phenotypic and clinical data to improve research, policymaking and healthcare across Europe.

The GDI project aims to unlock a data network of over one million genome sequences for research and clinical reference. This will create unprecedented opportunities for transnational and multi-stakeholder actions in personalised medicine for cancer, common, rare and infectious diseases as well as access to a reference genome collection representing the European population (Genome of Europe).

Not sure what genome and genomics mean? Read our GDI Key Terms.

Objectives and background:

  • Objective 1: To link and to provide cross-border access to genomic and related phenotypic datasets across Europe
  • Objective 2: To advance understanding of genomics for more precise and faster clinical decision making, diagnostics, treatments systems, and to benefit the overall economy
  • Objective 3: To align with the development under the European Health Data Space (EHDS)
  • Objective 4: To support the genomic data infrastructure with advanced information technology tools and capacities, such as AI, high performance computing, cloud, blockchain and trust solutions, as appropriate for enabling secure access to and distributed analysis of complex datasets
  • Objective 5: To maintain awareness, acceptance and trust in the main groups of stakeholders, notably European citizens, data holders, healthcare professionals, researchers and public health authorities

Building on current initiatives

The 1+MG initiative was signed in 2018 and aims to enable secure access to genomics and corresponding clinical data across Europe. This will lead to better research, personalised healthcare and health policymaking.

The Beyond 1 Million Genomes (B1MG) project started in 2020 and is funded by H2020. It is developing guidelines for implementing the 1+MG Initiative and creating blueprints and recommendations for creating federated networks of genomic data.

Building on the preparatory work of 1+MG working groups and the B1MG project, the GDI project brings 20 EU Member States together with two infrastructure organisations (BBMRI and EMBL). The project partners will work collectively to support the 1+MG Initiative's vision to facilitate better healthcare for citizens in Europe. This will be achieved by providing cross-border access to at least one million genomes and related clinical data.

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