China-based global life science innovator MGI Tech (MGI) and Saudi’s King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to engage in a strategic collaboration in the fields of genomic science and biotechnology.
Both entities will lead an international collaborative research program powered by MGI’s innovative technologies in areas such as genomics and bioinformatics for health and diseases while driving the development of local talent in these fields.
Driven by MGI’s proprietary DNBSEQ technology, the strategic collaboration will leverage MGI’s platform to improve genome sequencing and data quality across a wide range of applications, including human genome sequencing, transcriptome sequencing, infectious diseases, and microbial organisms research, such as COVID-19 monitoring and epidemiology.
Prof. Ahmed Alaskar Executive Director KAIMRC
“MGI is an invaluable strategic partner in our journey towards establishing state-of-the-art genomic sequencing capabilities in Saudi Arabia. Precision medicine is the future of healthcare and this partnership paves the way for new and innovative approaches in this field.”
The MOU envisions the establishment of a high-throughput sequencing center in KAIMRC which will house MGI’s leading technology platforms, including DNBSEQ sequencing, laboratory automation, and bioinformatics products.
MGI and KAIMRC will also join forces across several other areas such as business development, marketing, and public communications, and education to enhance genomic research and development, as well as create awareness in the coming genomic era.
Dr. Roy Tan, General Manager of MGI Asia Pacific said that “We are extremely proud and excited to partner with KAIMRC on this important initiative aimed at improving people’s health. We look forward to integrating our expertise with KAIMRC to deliver a positive impact on health and wellness that will benefit not only just Saudi Arabia but also the rest of the world.”
