Omics-Insights: Your Weekly Genomics & Proteomics Digest

Greetings, Omics Enthusiasts!

Welcome to our latest Omics Newsletter, your portal to the freshest updates and innovations in genomics. This week's newsletter brings you the latest updates from the dynamic world of Omics. In this edition, we explore the latest developments in the field, Genomenon's strategic partnership with Pharming Group aims to revolutionize the diagnosis of a rare immunodeficiency syndrome, while Oxford Nanopore Technologies unveils its Compatible Products Programme, fostering seamless integration of third-party products with its genomic sequencing solutions. The European Unified Patent Court's preliminary injunction against Curio Bioscience reflects legal complexities in the genomics industry, and Illumina's collaboration with the Garvan Institute seeks to advance single-cell disease research. Additionally, Beckman Coulter Life Sciences and Watchmaker Genomics collaborate to develop automated next-generation library preparation solutions, and Pacific Biosciences announces cost-cutting measures amidst financial challenges. In the spotlight, Ultima Genomics welcomes Mark Stevenson to its Board of Directors, reinforcing its commitment to genomic innovation.

This week's latest news in the field of Omics:

Genomenon, Inc and Pharming Group N.V. : Revolutionizing Diagnosis of Rare Immunodeficiency Syndrome

Genomenon recently announced a strategic partnership with Pharming Group, aiming to enhance the diagnosis of a rare immunodeficiency syndrome. The collaboration focuses on providing variant data related to two genes, PIK3CD and PIK3R1, associated with activated PI3K delta syndrome (APDS), to genetic testing laboratories and other stakeholders. Genomenon will supply meticulously curated variant information, summarized and classified according to rigorous medical guidelines, into its Mastermind Genomic Intelligence Platform. This initiative aims to empower clinical users to improve diagnostic accuracy, consequently facilitating early and precise medical interventions for patients with APDS. While specific financial details remain undisclosed, Pharming's Senior Director of Molecular Diagnostics, Heather McLaughlin, emphasized the significance of such collaborations in serving patients with rare diseases.

Oxford Nanopore Technologies Initiative: Fostering Compatibility for Genomic Sequencing

Oxford Nanopore Technologies unveiled its Compatible Products Programme, a strategic effort aimed at promoting seamless integration of third-party products with its genomic sequencing solutions. The programme underscores Oxford Nanopore's commitment to enhancing the user experience by expanding the range of compatible products available for use alongside its sequencing platforms. Chris Brown, Vice President for Strategic Programmes at Oxford Nanopore, highlighted the company's dedication to fostering a collaborative genomic ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and functionality in genomic research.

European Patent Court's Decision: Curio Bioscience Faces Injunction in Three Countries

The European Unified Patent Court (UPC) recently issued a preliminary injunction against Curio Bioscience in response to a patent infringement case initiated by 10x Genomics. The injunction, affecting sales of Curio's Seeker spatial mapping kit in France, Germany, and Sweden, reflects the court's findings regarding infringement of European Patent No. 2,697,391. Despite Curio's assertion of having a non-infringing version of Seeker available, the UPC's ruling underscores the legal hurdles faced by the company in commercializing its spatial biology platform. Both parties interpreted the decision as a victory, albeit with differing perspectives on its implications, signaling potential legal complexities in the genomics industry.

Illumina and Garvan Institute : Catalyzing Single-Cell Disease Research

In a collaborative effort, Illumina and the Garvan Institute of Medical Research announced a joint investment to advance single-cell and whole-genome sequencing research for complex diseases. With a focus on mapping genomic biomarkers for autoimmune diseases, heart diseases, and cancer through the TenK10K project, the partnership aims to leverage Illumina's support to accelerate the identification of disease-linked genomic fingerprints and facilitate the development of targeted therapies. Building upon previous successes, including the OneK1K project, this initiative underscores the potential of genomic research in driving precision medicine approaches for diverse medical conditions.

Beckman Coulter Life Sciences and Watchmaker Genomics : Pioneering Automated NGS Library Prep Solutions

Beckman Coulter Life Sciences and Watchmaker Genomics have joined forces to develop automated next-generation library preparation solutions. Leveraging Watchmaker's sample prep reagents and Beckman Coulter's automated liquid handling platform, the collaboration aims to streamline NGS library preparation workflows, particularly focusing on RNA library preparation. This partnership reflects a commitment to addressing workflow challenges and enhancing sensitivity in genomic research, ultimately facilitating accelerated scientific discoveries and improving operational efficiency in laboratories.

PacBio : Restructuring Amid Financial Challenges

Pacific Biosciences recently announced significant cost-cutting measures, including layoffs affecting nearly a quarter of its workforce and the closure of its San Diego location. These decisions come in response to disappointing preliminary financial results for the first quarter, signaling operational challenges for the sequencing instrument company. Despite strategic efforts to develop innovative sequencing technologies, including benchtop long-read and high-throughput short-read instruments, PacBio faces external pressures impacting its growth trajectory. However, CEO Christian Henry remains optimistic about the company's strategic direction, emphasizing the importance of navigating the evolving landscape of genomic research.

Spotlight: Person of the Week - Mark Stevenson Joins Ultima Genomics Board of Directors

Ultima Genomics, a trailblazer in ultra-high throughput sequencing, proudly welcomes Mark Stevenson to its Board of Directors. Stevenson, a luminary with over three decades of experience in the life sciences sector, notably served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Thermo Fisher Scientific.

Mark Stevenson brings a wealth of invaluable expertise to Ultima Genomics, having spearheaded the innovation and commercialization of cutting-edge next-generation sequencing technologies during his tenure at Thermo Fisher Scientific. His visionary leadership was instrumental in driving advancements that have reshaped both life sciences research and clinical diagnostics.

Gilad Almogy, CEO and founder of Ultima Genomics, expressed his excitement about Stevenson’s appointment, highlighting his extensive background and proven track record in the industry. Almogy emphasized Stevenson’s pivotal role in propelling Ultima Genomics forward following the successful launch of its groundbreaking sequencing architecture.

In his statement, Mark Stevenson lauded Ultima Genomics’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of conventional approaches in genomics. He underscored the transformative potential of Ultima’s sequencing technology in revolutionizing healthcare by facilitating groundbreaking research and enhancing clinical diagnostics.

Stevenson’s continued involvement with Thermo Fisher Scientific's Scientific Advisory Board, along with his board positions at Ingersoll Rand Inc. (NYSE: IR) and Harbinger Health, underscores his enduring dedication to shaping the future of the life sciences industry. Additionally, his role as a senior advisor at General Atlantic further solidifies his reputation as a trusted leader and strategic advisor in the global business landscape.

With Mark Stevenson’s appointment, Ultima Genomics fortifies its position at the forefront of genomic innovation, poised to usher in a new era of transformative advancements in healthcare and beyond.

Current Live Omics Roles at Kinetica:

?Business Development Manager – Imaging Analysis - West Coast

Business Development Manager – Imaging Analysis – Mid-West

Sales Executive – NGS Software – US

VP of Product Management – Life Science Instruments

Account Manager – Mid-Atlantic – Genomics reagents.

Marketing Manager – Genomics – Northern California

Business Development Manager - Synthetic Biology – West Coast

Business Development Manager - Synthetic Biology – East Coast

Sales Specialist – Spatial Omics – Northeast US

Account Manager – NGS - Northeast US

Job Hunting Tips from an Omics Specialist Recruiter: Stay Adaptable to Change:

The life sciences industry is dynamic and constantly evolving, with new technologies, regulations, and market trends emerging regularly. As a commercial professional, it's crucial to stay adaptable and agile in response to these changes.

Adaptability involves being open to new ideas, approaches, and ways of working. It means embracing innovation and exploring opportunities to improve processes, products, and strategies. In the fast-paced world of life sciences, what worked yesterday may not work tomorrow, so it's essential to remain flexible and willing to pivot when necessary.

Furthermore, staying adaptable requires a proactive approach to learning and development. Keep abreast of industry developments by attending conferences, workshops, and webinars. Stay informed about regulatory changes and market trends that may impact commercial activities.

Additionally, seek feedback from colleagues, mentors, and industry experts to continuously refine your skills and strategies. Be receptive to constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity for growth and improvement.

Moreover, adaptability extends beyond individual actions to organizational culture. Encourage a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within your team or company. Foster an environment where experimentation and risk-taking are valued, and where failure is seen as a learning opportunity rather than a setback.

By cultivating adaptability in yourself and your organization, you'll be better equipped to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the life sciences industry and thrive in your commercial role.

Wrapping Up Another Omics-Insights:

Thank you for embarking on a journey into the dynamic world of Omics with Kinetica! Explore the latest genomics job opportunities, stay informed with industry news, and indulge in insightful blogs at www.kinetica.co.uk. Your curiosity drives my commitment to relevant content, and I'm here to provide insights that fuel your scientific endeavors. Feel free to reach out with any questions or feedback. Wishing you ongoing inspiration and discovery in your scientific pursuits. Until next week, may your experiments yield groundbreaking results, and may your Omics journey remain as fascinating as the science itself!