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SPARKing new genomics technologies in Ontario

By Helen Petropoulos
April 29, 2011
 


MoneyNew technologies are driving genomics sciences forward, including the development of leading-edge instrumentation, software, reagents and protocols.  Given the impacts that new technologies can have on the research community (and sometimes on bottom lines too) technology development is a major focus for many genomics labs and companies world-wide.

If you have an idea for developing a novel, unique and transformative technology relevant to genomics, the Ontario Genomics Institute (OGI) has launched a new SPARK program that might be the right opportunity to get you started.  The program will award up to $50,000 to technology development projects performed in Ontario labs or companies.

Ontario teams are already making some notable strides in terms of genomics-related technology development.  Just a couple of examples around new instrumentation developed right here in Ontario include:

  • DVS Sciences, a company that has already sold their novel mass cytometer to top laboratories in Canada and the US
  • Xagenic, a company that raised over $1 million last fall towards the development of a molecular diagnostic technology

The SPARK program is aimed at helping novel and innovative technologies like these take shape.  If your lab or company can benefit from funds to get your technology development efforts started, click here to learn more about the SPARK program and about OGI.

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  • Racheloliver89

    New genomics technologies can often be created based on
    shared international data that contributes to research. McGill’s Director of the Centre of Genomics and Policy,
    Bartha Knoppers, has recently published a data
    sharing Code of Conduct for international genomic research. Do you think
    that the code is adequate or could you add to or subtracts from it? http://cbt20.wordpress.com/2011/07/14/genomic-code-conduct/

Helen Petropoulos

Helen Petropoulos

Helen Petropoulos is part of the Business Development team at the Ontario Genomics Institute (OGI). She helps Ontario scientists and biotech companies bridge the gap between basic research and commercialization. She’s also worked in consulting and in the pharmaceutical industry as a postdoctoral fellow.

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