Genomics at UNC
Since 2001, the overarching goal of the Carolina Center for Genome Sciences (CCGS) has been to support genomic research at UNC Chapel Hill. We pursue this goal by focusing on four areas: Research, Technology, Training, and Education. We are dedicated to making significant advances in basic genomic research, as well as translating these discoveries to improving healthcare, education and society.
Our Research effort is anchored in the salary support we provide to 21 faculty members in 7 academic units and 15 departments across campus. Genomics is, by its nature, a multidisciplinary science. It requires deep expertise in genetics, biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, epidemiology, computer science, statistics, engineering, and the social sciences. We also have PhD-level staff scientists available to coordinate interdisciplinary projects and proposals. Technology is critical to progress in genomics. Among other initiatives, the CCGS contributes to the operation of the UNC High Throughput Sequencing Facility, which operates eight state-of-the-art Illumina machines and the new Pacific Biosciences SMRT platform. The CCGS has also played a central role in organizing the bioinformatics efforts across campus, which are essential for realizing the potential of these technologies. Our Training mission is represented by the three graduate programs we administer to train future interdisciplinary genomic scientists: the NIH-funded Bioinformatics and Computational Biology (BCB) PhD program, the PhD Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology PhD program, also funded by the NIH, and the Developmental Biology certificate program. Finally, none of our work will have an impact if we do not Educate our faculty and the public about Genome Science and its implications. The CCGS sponsors and organize several symposia and classes throughout the year, focusing on genomic technology, data analysis, ethical and legal implications, and other topics. We also invite speakers from other universities and companies around the world to give seminars on related topics.
Through our efforts in these four areas , we endeavor to apply the knowledge gained through genomics to health and welfare of society at all levels, including drug discovery, patient care, crop protection, and public policy.
Jason Lieb, PhD
CCGS Director