Canada and Germany to collaborate on human genetics research

Canada and Germany have signed an agreement to collaborate on research and capacity building in areas of science related to human genetic disease. The five-year collaborative program — entitled Elucidation of Human Genetic Disease Using Genomic Technologies — brings together leading scientists from both nations to undertake joint research projects. It will also include scientific meetings, exchange of scientific personnel and support for scientific trainees, growing the pool of scientists trained in genomics and genetics. It is expected the collaboration will accelerate the study of single-gene disorders and complex diseases which contribute to 90% of health problems and death. Participating in the collaboration are: Canadian Institutes of Health Research - Institute of Genetics, Canadian Genetic Diseases Network and Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics. The focus of the research will be multi-disciplinary, including computer science, chemistry, mathematics, physics, bioinformatics and social sciences. The agreement was signed February 19 in Bonn....