News – Wellcome Sanger Institute

8 Dec 2022

Brazil, bats and GoaT

Find out about Genomes on a Tree (or GoaT) database, which will hold data for the hundreds of thousand of species that are currently having their genomes sequenced for the first time.

8 Dec 2022

Developmental Lung Cell Atlas uncovers 144 cell states

Researchers have created a spatial cell atlas of the developing human lung, describing 144 cell types and their interactions in unparalleled ...

8 Dec 2022

Software to sort samples and sequence species at scale

Meet the software developers, informaticians and bioinformaticians who are helping to sequence the DNA of all life on earth.

7 Dec 2022

New genomes to help protect Britain’s wild and ancient apples

European crab-apple and four heritage edible apple varieties sequenced as part of Darwin Tree of Life project

6 Dec 2022

Following insect footprints to improve crop resilience and monitor pollinator biodiversity

Pollinators leave behind DNA ‘footprints’ on crops, which can be used as a non-invasive way to inform crop management and support ...

30 Nov 2022

Springtails, fly testes and the secrets of strange reproduction

Dr Kamil Jaron is interested in strange reproduction (in a genomic sense). His work is exploring the changes in DNA variation and chromosome structure caused by the different ways species reproduce, to see how this drives evolution.

23 Nov 2022

New hope for kidney cancer treatment using existing drugs

Molecular pathway involved in renal cell carcinoma has already been targetted to treat lung cancer

23 Nov 2022

The Power of Resilience: Attending the UK’s largest tech event for women

A group of women from Sanger’s Production Software Development team will head to London this month to join 4,500+ tech innovators, leaders and industry titans at this year’s Women of Silicon Roundabout conference.

18 Nov 2022

Asexuality in STEM: Definitions, misconceptions, and queer joy

What it means to be asexual, misconceptions and queer joy in the science communication space.

17 Nov 2022

An ancient foe and a modern arms race

How genomic surveillance is helping to spot, track and predict drug resistance in malaria parasites across the globe.

9 Nov 2022

Breast cancer spread uncovered by new molecular microscopy

Researchers have created a tool that maps how breast cancer grows in previously unseen detail, and highlights how the cells around ...

9 Nov 2022

Sequencing anything, anytime, anywhere

We talk to Physilia Chua about her work to monitor biodiversity and make DNA sequencing more accessible.

3 Nov 2022

Understand, predict, engineer

Ben Lehner joins the Sanger Institute as a new Senior Group Leader. He seeks to lay the foundations for programmable biology.

2 Nov 2022

Sepsis and Covid-19 patients most at risk predicted with genetic model

Model paves the way for applying precision medicine techniques to diseases like sepsis that have proven difficult to diagnose and treat

31 Oct 2022

Representation matters

Sasha Henriques explores some of issues around race and representation in genomics and genomic counselling.

27 Oct 2022

Wellcome Sanger Institute announces three inaugural Excellence Fellows

The first three Sanger Excellence Postdoctoral Fellows have been announced and will join the Wellcome Sanger Institute in the coming months, ...

25 Oct 2022

Resistance genes mapped for drugs to treat parasitic worms

Study pinpoints how drug resistance emerges and provides crucial data for tracking resistant variants in the field

19 Oct 2022

From genomes to medicines: an interview with Ian Dunham

Ian Dunham has been a pillar of Open Targets since its inception. Helena Cornu sat down with him to understand how his career led him from the Human Genome Project to Director of Open Targets, and what he envisions for the future of the consortium.‌

17 Oct 2022

Sanger researcher elected to U.S. National Academy of Medicine

Dr Peter Campbell honoured for his pioneering work in cancer genomics and tumour evolution

11 Oct 2022

Celebrating women in STEM

It’s Ada Lovelace Day – an international celebration of the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

10 Oct 2022

Orcinus orca: How a tragic stranding helped us dive into the killer whale genome

New genome sequence will boost research into the evolution and population genetics of killer whales

10 Oct 2022

Pockets of resistance found in survey of pathogen diversity

Hidden multi-drug resistant and virulent strains detected by population deep sequencing approach

7 Oct 2022

I Am A Biologist

This biology week celebrates the amazing worlds of bioscience. We asked some of our staff to tell us about their work, and why they love biology.

3 Oct 2022

Biodiversity genomics event returns

This free and open event brings together international researchers to share breakthroughs, challenges and advances in how we apply genomics to understanding, utilising and protecting life on Earth.

3 Oct 2022

You have to be in it, to win it - association with Horizon Europe

Science is not a zero sum game. We all win when we work together and the Horizon Europe programme is a fantastic opportunity that brings researchers across Europe to grow their skils and solve many of our most pressing issues. Falling out of this community will damage the UK’s science for many years to come, argues Sarion Bowers, Head of Policy at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.

28 Sep 2022

Sanger joins Europe’s drive to reverse biodiversity loss through genomics research

Sanger Institute scientists join European experts to launch Biodiversity Genomics Europe, an unprecedented project that will tackle the biodiversity crisis using ...

26 Sep 2022

How do you sequence over 240,000 whole human genomes?

The world’s largest human genome sequencing project has been for UK Biobank – a large-scale biomedical database. Sanger staff have sequenced 243,633 human genomes in 3.5 years.

26 Sep 2022

Our UK Biobank Journey: 3 years and over 240,000 human genomes

In 2019, the Sanger Institute started on the most ambitious human genome sequencing project in the world. Three years later, the Institute has delivered nearly 250,000 whole human genome sequences and over 20 petabytes (PB) of data, for the UK Biobank project, to aid research into health and disease.

15 Sep 2022

Experiencing Sanger's science first hand

This year the Sanger Institute gave three Year 12 students the opportunity to directly contribute our cutting-edge science. Read about their experiences

7 Sep 2022

Butterflies, peacock spiders, and rapid speciation

Dr Joana Meier, new group leader in the Tree of Life programme, describes her research into how and why groups of animals evolve and diversify into new species over millennia.

7 Sep 2022

Study develops new way of identifying cancer cells

Open access software also provides crucial data on the microenvironment of tumours

5 Sep 2022

Sanger researchers share in grant to develop lupus treatments

Three international teams receive funding from Lupus Research Alliance to advance research targeting cognition, gut microbiome and ancestral genetics

1 Sep 2022

Genomics: A challenging field full of opportunity

Read our Associate Director's report from the recent Global Genetics Conference.

29 Aug 2022

Study zeroes in on genes involved in Crohn’s disease

Role of mesenchymal cells in causing inflammation highlighted

16 Aug 2022

From genomes to vaccines: lessons from the pneumococcus

Decade-long surveillance of a deadly bacterial pathogen has shown how genomics can be used to design effective vaccines and combat antimicrobial resistance.

16 Aug 2022

Genomics empowers vaccine makers to tackle shapeshifting bacteria

Strain with increased virulence, multi-drug resistance and ability to evade vaccines identified as key threat

11 Aug 2022

Origins of germ cell tumours unravelled giving possible opportunities for future treatment

Researchers have studied the root of germ cell tumours and revealed molecular signatures that could help guide the course of treatment ...

10 Aug 2022

Immune cells acquire genomic scars in a lifetime defending against infection

Immune cells known as lymphocytes have been genetically sequenced in more detail than ever before to investigate how mutations in these ...

9 Aug 2022

Finishing genome puzzles

Explore the skilful art of interpreting genome sequence data - from the human genome project to all species.

3 Aug 2022

First map of immune system connections reveals new therapeutic opportunities

Sanger researchers have created the first full connectivity map of the human immune system, showing how immune cells communicate with each ...

3 Aug 2022

Unlocking surface proteins

A decades-long interest in cell surface proteins has led to discoveries as diverse as how malaria parasites invade human blood cells, a vaccine target for a neglected tropical disease, and finding the molecules that must interact to initiate new life.

27 Jul 2022

Genomics drives UK life science success, new report finds

Genomics companies outperform their life science peers at attracting both public and private investment according to a new report

18 Jul 2022

Catalysing collaboration: from the commercial sector to Sanger

Meet Julie Hipkiss, Associate Director of Enterprise Solutions at the Wellcome Sanger Institute

15 Jul 2022

Genetic changes that affect the risk of developing pre-leukaemia identified

New genetic variants have been identified that increase the likelihood of developing clonal haematopoiesis, which is a risk factor for multiple ...

14 Jul 2022

Mutation pathway to bowel cancer discovered

Inherited mutations in the MUTYH gene lead to a higher mutational burden in healthy intestinal cells, causing pre-cancerous growths and a ...

14 Jul 2022

World's largest database for predicting cancer treatment response based on cancer proteins

Data analysed using deep learning technique to predict the response of cancer cells to treatment

12 Jul 2022

New hub to help make global genomic surveillance of disease a reality

Unit’s mission will be to accelerate the generation of genomic data on a large scale

12 Jul 2022

Searching for the roots of childhood cancer

Meet Thomas Oliver, trainee pathologist and PhD student, working on the origins of childhood cancers.

11 Jul 2022

First genetic map of one of humans oldest parasites

Modern day and ancient samples of the parasitic worm that causes the neglected tropical disease, Trichuriasis, have been analysed to create ...

6 Jul 2022

Cell map of human gonads identifies the cells involved in sex determination

Data will empower further study into differences of sex development, infertility and reproductive diseases

6 Jul 2022

Three Sanger Institute researchers honoured by EMBO

The scientists are being recognised for their contributions to immunology, single-cell genomics, malaria research, artificial intelligence and promoting dialogues between scientists, ...

30 Jun 2022

Breath of fresh air

Dr Josie Bryant is a new group leader at the Sanger Institute. She is interested in how microbes in the human lung evolve and adapt over time and how this affects health and disease. We spoke to Josie about the inspirations behind her science, returning to Sanger, and what excites her about establishing a new research group.

29 Jun 2022

LGBTQ+ scientists who shaped history

Science thrives on diversity. Diversity of opinions, upbringing, experiences, and lifestyles, brings about innovation. It is imperative that everyone feels safe and comfortable to be their true selves at work, as that is how the best work is achieved.

20 Jun 2022

Smashing stereotypes in science

Two new projects, Science for Everyone and Adopt a Scientist, aim to challenge unconscious bias around science and science careers.

15 Jun 2022

Badger genome to enable study of disease, climate change and social interaction

The genome will help understand how harsh conditions in early life affect success, and other research questions

1 Jun 2022

Cellular secrets of ageing unlocked by researchers

Researchers have discovered how genetic mutations accumulated slowly over a lifetime lead to dramatic changes in how blood is formed after ...

1 Jun 2022

Impact of DNA mutations on lifelong blood cell production uncovered

Researchers discover how leukaemia-associated gene mutations steadily commandeer blood cell production over a lifetime, and how these changes relate to ageing ...

31 May 2022

COVID-19: update on SARS-CoV-2 genome sequencing at the Sanger Institute

Current status of coronavirus genome sequencing at the Sanger Institute

31 May 2022

Completing the puzzle of life on earth

Behind the scenes of Sanger's Tree of Life programme

26 May 2022

Study tracking T-cell activation over time boosts search for immune disease treatments

Cells tracked through four points in time to map activation at molecular level

17 May 2022

Six unbelievable things you probably didn’t know about DNA

Explore the surprising secrets of DNA, genes and genomes.

13 May 2022

Three Sanger scientists recieve prestigious fellowships for their work

Congratulations to Professor Nicholas Thomson and Dr John Marioni who have been recognised by the Academy of Medical Sciences, and Professor ...

12 May 2022

Immune cell characteristics mapped across multiple tissues, from early life to adulthood

Two new papers from the Human Cell Atlas shed new light on the types and traits of immune cells that can ...

12 May 2022

Wellcome Genome Campus staff commended at Cambridge Independent Science and Technology Awards

The winners were drawn from all aspects of the Campus' world-leading work with genomes: from academic research to commercial application, and ...

11 May 2022

Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay to visit Wellcome Genome Campus as full England route revealed

Baton will visit Wellcome Genome Campus in South Cambridgeshire on 9 July 2022 ahead of the Commonwealth Games

11 May 2022

Increased mutations in children can be traced back to mistakes in father’s sperm

Researchers have traced the cause of increased numbers of mutations in children to a higher rate of random mutations in sperm ...

4 May 2022

Supporting translational research at the Sanger Institute

Six innovative projects have been selected by the Translation Committee for their potential of delivering novel approaches for the advancement of ...

27 Apr 2022

You can change the world

In conversation with Julia Gillard, who has recently joined Wellcome as Chair of the Board. Wellcome aim to solve the urgent health challenges facing everyone.

25 Apr 2022

From genome data to malaria control

How MalariaGEN's latest genetic data resources are helping in the fight to eliminate malaria.

22 Apr 2022

Contamination control and walking with dinosaurs

Meet Laura Grout, a Quality Assurance Manager playing a vital role in genomic surveillance and UK Biobank projects at the Sanger Institute.

14 Apr 2022

New bacteria in mice associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Bacteria that cause weight loss and intestinal inflammation discovered in mice should be considered in the interpretation and design of future ...

13 Apr 2022

Mutations across animal kingdom shed new light on ageing

Quantity of mutations acquired similar over lifetime of 16 species, despite vast differences in lifespan and body mass

7 Apr 2022

Take on a coding challenge to build the Tree of Life

Sanger’s Tree of Life programme is taking part in Google Summer of Code, a global online initiative focused on bringing ...

6 Apr 2022

Genes linked to disease affect function of rare immune cell type

Study set out to identify how genetic variants modulate function of regulatory T cells

1 Apr 2022

Mini guts used to study early stages of whipworm infection

Researchers have developed a new organoid model of the mouse gut to understand how the gut lining responds to whipworm infection ...

1 Apr 2022

Researchers generate the first complete, gapless sequence of a human genome

Complete genome sequence will significantly add to knowledge of chromosomes, including more accurate maps for five chromosome arms

1 Apr 2022

Study sheds light on why immunodeficiency affects only one identical twin

Cell-cell communication and epigenetic problems found to interfere with immune function

31 Mar 2022

Setting the bar higher – the complete human genome sequence

The newly determined sequence covers previously inaccessible regions of chromosomes, bringing a new era for genomics.

28 Mar 2022

Barcoding creatures and building confidence

Meet Leia Zhao, a research assistant working in the Evolutionary Genomics group in the Tree of Life Programme.

28 Mar 2022

New analysis sheds light on how to uncover causal variants for immune-mediated diseases

Mapping regulatory trait loci can help uncover which genetic variants are most likely to be the cause of immune-mediated diseases.

23 Mar 2022

Evolutionary pressures on genes associated with childlessness

Genetic variants that damage the genome have a small association with increased childlessness, but free choice and other factors are more ...

18 Mar 2022

LiFTS: Li Fraumeni over Time Study – tracking changes in LFS

March 20th is Li Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS) Awareness Day. People will be on social media, wearing blue, #WearBlueForLFS, to raise awareness of this little-known cancer syndrome

14 Mar 2022

New hope for treatment of infant cancer that has puzzled researchers for decades

Subtle differences detected in immune cell type from which infant leukaemia arises

8 Mar 2022

Making your voice heard

Evolutionary genomics, creepy crawlies and being a woman in science

8 Mar 2022

Women rising in STEM

Reflections on working on genomic surveillance in the pandemic, and being a woman in science.

8 Mar 2022

Work to promote race equity in science celebrated at Best Practice Awards

The Wellcome Genome Campus holds its annual awards for Best Practice for Supporting Equality and Diversity in Science, in celebration of ...

4 Mar 2022

Statement on the war in Ukraine

Communication from the Wellcome Sanger Institute

1 Mar 2022

Sequencing COVID variants: latest stats

Latest numbers for coronavirus genome sequencing at the Sanger Institute

28 Feb 2022

The power of sharing

Three opportunities and challenges in rare disease research

24 Feb 2022

Genomic study shows that England’s travel quarantine measures were effective – up to a point

More than half of imported cases during period studied came from just three countries

23 Feb 2022

Calls to share genetic data fairly and promote conservation

Scientists from 17 countries have published their thoughts on ongoing UN policy discussions around the sharing of digital sequence information to ...

23 Feb 2022

New drug combinations found for resistant cancers

Sanger researchers have created the world’s largest novel resource using systematic drug testing and genetics analyses to show new potential ...

16 Feb 2022

The diversity of plants

We spoke to some of the team planning to sequence the DNA of every plant species in Britain and Ireland about the diversity of plant genomes and the importance of plant science in the face of global challenges.

11 Feb 2022

International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2022

To celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated annually on 11 February, we asked some of our female staff to tell us about their work, and what being a woman in science means to them.

11 Feb 2022

Women rising in STEM

To celebrate International Day of Women & Girls in Science, we sat down with Sanger Associate Director, Dr Julia Wilson to talk about her career so far and being a woman in science.

3 Feb 2022

Engaging everyone with science

Researchers discuss an innovative new training course designed to help them engage the public with science, with a focus on equity and diversity.

3 Feb 2022

Motivations to take part in research vary around the world

Being able to receive results is a key motivator that influences participation in research, according to public audiences from the USA, ...

1 Feb 2022

Professor Sir Mike Stratton to step down from Institute Directorship

The new Director will be appointed over the coming year, and Sir Mike will remain at the Institute to continue conducting ...

27 Jan 2022

Exploring race, diversity and genomics

A new PhD project will explore structural inequalities in genomic research

19 Jan 2022

Adult blood cancer-causing mutations occur in early childhood

Mutations that cause adult blood cancer have been traced to acquisition in childhood, suggesting that cancer causing events can arise in ...

17 Jan 2022

British and Irish project at forefront of global effort to map genomes of all life on Earth

Activity on Earth BioGenome Project and affiliated initiatives due to ramp up considerably in 2022

13 Jan 2022

Unprecedented cellular maps of tissues enabled by new tool

Ability to combine cell function and spatial information key to understanding life at molecular level

10 Jan 2022

New centre to explore links between organisms and their microbiomes

The £10m Leverhulme Centre for the Holobiont aims to create a green revolution in agriculture, rescue threatened species, and restore habitats

5 Jan 2022

Superbug MRSA arose in hedgehogs before use of antibiotics

Scientists have found evidence that the antibiotic resistant superbug MRSA arose in nature long before the use of antibiotics, which has ...

22 Dec 2021

Rapid immune response in children protects them from COVID-19, genetic study finds

Discovery of importance of interferon response in preventing serious infection will underpin new diagnostics and therapeutics

21 Dec 2021

21 things we’ve learned in 2021

We would like to bring you 21 things that we have learned in the year 2021

20 Dec 2021

Sanger researcher invited to deliver 2022 Balfour Lecture

The award marks Dr Sam Behjati’s contributions to genetics research, as an outstanding young investigator

20 Dec 2021

The Story of Dogs

Dogs, descended from wolves, were the first animals to be domesticated by humans, some 40,000 years ago. New research, using modern DNA sequencing, is unravelling the evolutionary history of our canine companions.

16 Dec 2021

Darwin Tree of Life in 2021: Tireless fieldwork and the first beautiful genomes

Teams have been collecting species across the UK - from the mountains of Scotland, to the sea caves of Wales, and the forests of Oxfordshire. Back in the labs we’ve been processing protists, extracting DNA, and assembling and publishing the first of our high-quality, reference genomes.

10 Dec 2021

Genetic history of British Pakistanis mapped for the first time

Analysis of genomic data from the Born in Bradford study will help to ensure those of Pakistani ancestry benefit from advances ...

9 Dec 2021

New centre to foster global conversations about ethical issues raised by science

The University of Cambridge and Wellcome Connecting Science announce the launch of the Kavli Centre for Ethics, Science, and the Public, ...

9 Dec 2021

New link between malaria parasites and sickle haemoglobin identified

Some malaria parasites in sub-Saharan Africa have genetic variants that allow them to infect those with sickle haemoglobin, which is normally ...

8 Dec 2021

Launch of Fellowship programme to support next generation of Black scientists

The three-year Fellowship is open exclusively to early-stage Black heritage researchers who studied at a UK institution and offers a fully ...

8 Dec 2021

Research Excellence: The Power of Diversity

The Sanger Institute recently hosted three speakers as part of a new series - Research Excellence: The Power of Diversity. Read a short summary of the talks and view a Q&A with the speakers.

2 Dec 2021

Human parasite’s daily rhythms could be targeted for better treatments

The parasitic worm that causes the neglected tropical disease, schistosomiasis, has daily rhythms in gene expression, including genes that could be ...

2 Dec 2021

Mapping the endometrium, cell by cell

Dr Roser Vento-Tormo tells us about her work to map the cells lining the uterus in space and time, how it epitomises her love of collaboration in science

2 Dec 2021

Spinning out the science

Much of our research has the potential to positively impact people's lives around the world. And who better to deliver this than the scientists themselves?

2 Dec 2021

Uterus study is important step towards understanding diseases that affect one third of women

The study's organoid-based techniques provide a sophisticated model of endometrial function and will form a blueprint for discovering how other ...

26 Nov 2021

Syphilis is back and it is global, genetic study suggests

Disease incidence has risen sharply in recent decades

23 Nov 2021

IBS biomarker identified that could help personalise diet and treatment

Half of people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome have a distinct microbiome compared to healthy people, and they respond better to a ...

22 Nov 2021

A Space for Science

"The most incredible things in research are the incidental findings, the serendipitous connections, moments when you are looking for one thing but you find another.”

19 Nov 2021

Sanger celebrates Highly Cited Researchers

A number of researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute have been named on Clarivate's Highly Cited list

17 Nov 2021

Researchers will map immune cells across Latin America with support from CZI

Researchers will sequence immune cell diversity across Latin America for the first time, shedding light on how ancestry impacts the immune ...

17 Nov 2021

Whole Genome Sequencing data on 200,000 UK Biobank participants are made widely available for research through unique public-private partnership

First release from world’s largest whole genome sequencing project could help researchers to understand the genetic determinants of disease and ...

15 Nov 2021

Covid Connections - Big Data in a Pandemic World

Researchers discuss COVID-19 genome data and its complexities, data sharing and security, and their careers in data science

9 Nov 2021

New database of 660,000 assembled bacterial genomes sheds light on the evolution of bacteria

A vast, curated collection of bacterial genomes has been created that allows the community unprecedented access to data.

3 Nov 2021

A Cellular Landscape

The connections between the external and internal environments are explored in a new experimental short film ‘Call of the Silent Cell’. The film created was by artists working with scientists in the Human Cell Atlas (HCA) – a global project to map the 37 trillion cells in our bodies, and forms part of a new, online exhibition.

3 Nov 2021

Sanger researchers to tackle deadly brain cancer with ‘tissue time machine’

Sanger Institute scientists are starting a new project that will integrate information from spatial transcriptomics with single-cell RNA and DNA sequencing, ...

2 Nov 2021

Sanger employee recognised in BioBeat’s top 30 trendsetters in UK life sciences

Burcu Bronner-Anar is celebrated in BioBeat’s ‘Movers and Shakers in BioBusiness report’ that lists 30 UK trendsetters who are tackling ...

29 Oct 2021

Art and science unite to explore the intricacies of the human body

The exhibition, One Cell At A Time opens on the 29th October 2021. It combines art and science to explore the ...

25 Oct 2021

Huge global variation in oesophageal cancer incidence not due to a unique pattern of DNA damage

Major global research collaboration adds new piece to the complex puzzle of oesophageal cancer

25 Oct 2021

Hunting for the unknown causes of cancer

Patient advocates share their involvement in the mutographs research project, their experiences of cancer, and their journey around the globe.

22 Oct 2021

A Health Data Research UK Black Internship Programme experience

This Black History Month, we asked Ifeanyi Chukwu to reflect on his recent experiences as an intern within HDR UK’s Black Internship Programme at the University of Cambridge, and what it was like working with one of the world’s biggest health data sets.

18 Oct 2021

Marine medicines from the slimiest of worms

“They’re not cute or charismatic. They have toxic mucus. But I like nemerteans because no one is rooting for them – and we know so little about them.”

14 Oct 2021

The inside story of England COVID pandemic described in new study

The most detailed analysis of SARS-CoV-2 genomics surveillance to date shows COVID-19 as a series of overlapping epidemics rather than a ...

13 Oct 2021

Mutated cells drive out early tumours from the oesophagus

Normal human oesophagus carries a high number of mutations, but tumours are rare, due to mutant cells eliminating early tumours

13 Oct 2021

Mutations in liver cells linked to liver disease and fat metabolism

Mutations linking liver disease with obesity and diabetes have been identified, leading to new understanding about how systemic diseases interact

11 Oct 2021

Talent in Diversity

Over this year's Black History Month, we are celebrating the diversity of talent here at the Sanger Institute. For this profile, we spoke to Alice Matimba, Global Training Manager at Wellcome Connecting Science.

7 Oct 2021

We are molecular mosaics

Quantifying the mutational landscape of the human body

1 Oct 2021

Talent in Diversity

Over this year’s Black History Month, we are celebrating the diversity of talent here at the Sanger Institute. Here, three of our scientists reflect on their paths into research and why diversity in science is so important.

30 Sep 2021

Higher rates of mutation alone are not to blame for age related disease

Researchers have found that cells tolerate many more mutations than previously thought, without impacting their function

29 Sep 2021

Cell atlas reveals how blood and immune systems form in developing bone marrow

Study fills large knowledge gap and has important implications for diagnosis and treatment of immune deficiencies and leukaemia

28 Sep 2021

Genomics for all

In this guest post, Sadye Paez and Marcela Uliano-Silva explore what it takes to sequence the genomes of all life on Earth with the principles of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion.

23 Sep 2021

Eimeria: the chicken parasite costing farmers billions

By sequencing the genome of this single-celled coccidian parasite, scientists hope to develop better vaccines to protect poultry from a disease that causes severe diarrhoea and death.

20 Sep 2021

Celebrating Sanger Postdocs

This week (20th-24th September) is Postdoc Appreciation Week - a time to celebrate the fantastic contribution postdoctoral scientists make.

14 Sep 2021

Evidence-based national policies are essential to curb local COVID-19 infections

By using genomic surveillance and mobile phone data, researchers have uncovered useful insights into the management of the COVID-19 pandemic in ...

10 Sep 2021

Wellcome Sanger Institute recognised as Charity Times finalist for outstanding contribution to pandemic response

Staff praised for dedication and excellence as they work to sequence coronavirus genomes, helping to shape the pandemic response

8 Sep 2021

Development study reveals origins of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Creating Cell Atlas of Human Development will transform understanding of health and disease

1 Sep 2021

International research consortium to tackle tumour drug resistance using single-cell sequencing

Sanger Institute scientists join a new collaborative research project that will use single-cell sequencing to tackle drug resistance and develop smarter ...

31 Aug 2021

Sanger scientists receive Chan Zuckerberg Initiative grants to study childhood diseases

Projects will create cell atlases of the paediatric ovary, skin and brain to better understand human biology and provide reference datasets ...

27 Aug 2021

Loss of gene linked to differences in brain size

Inactivation of the MAGEE2 gene, seen widely across East Asia, results in enlarged brains in men and decreased brain size in ...

25 Aug 2021

Researchers discover individual variation in how our bodies develop and acquire mutations

Studies will help to establish baseline for human development and acquisition of mutations during life in the soma and the germline

23 Aug 2021

Defining Success

Five inspirational speakers share their journeys, definitions of success, and lessons learnt in the space of diversity and inclusion.

23 Aug 2021

Link between amino acid and a range of common diseases could help predict personal risk

Researchers have identified a link between mitochondrial DNA variants, amino acid fMet, and a range of common, late-onset diseases

10 Aug 2021

Fighting the spread of drug-resistant malaria with genetic surveillance

In-depth genomic surveillance of the malaria parasite over multiple countries has tracked regions of drug resistance

9 Aug 2021

From Mild to Mortal

An expert panel discuss some of the latest research into human genetics, immunology and COVID-19.

5 Aug 2021

Researchers track how microbiome bacteria adapt to humans via transmission

New research has shed light on how transmission of gut bacteria influences its evolution and functions

4 Aug 2021

Genetic study reveals ancient human adaptation to agriculture and climate change in Middle East

The most comprehensive study so far of genetic diversity in the Middle East has given a glimpse into the lives of ...

4 Aug 2021

New therapeutic target discovered for a number of aggressive cancers

An RNA-modifying protein elevated in some aggressive cancers has been shown to be a promising target for new drug development

4 Aug 2021

The evolutionary history of humans

Mohamed Almarri has recently completed a PhD studying population history and global genetic diversity.

2 Aug 2021

OKRs: Strategic planning the Google way

We’re refreshing the way we do strategic planning, using Objectives and Key Results (OKRs)

21 Jul 2021

A forgotten disease

How genomics is helping to understand melioidosis - a neglected, often fatal, bacterial disease.

16 Jul 2021

Reflections on race and equity in research: One year on…

One year on from the murder of George Floyd, we take a step back to reflect on our reactions and actions to that event and its ongoing repercussions.

29 Jun 2021

Covid Connections – Variant or Villain

The second COVID connections talk brought together experts from COG-UK to discuss SARS-CoV-2 variants.

28 Jun 2021

Bacterial Biomes

"we are well aware that what we know about already is just a small percentage of the diversity that actually exists on Earth."

24 Jun 2021

Water vole genome will help boost conservation of one of UK's most endangered mammals

The water vole genome is published as part of the Darwin Tree of Life Project to assemble the genomes of 70, ...

23 Jun 2021

Cellular signatures of kidney tumours discovered

This method of identification holds promise as a tool for diagnosing patients with rare cancers

18 Jun 2021

Getting to the heart of the matter

Exploring the genomics of inherited cardiomyopathies.

17 Jun 2021

Study identifies trigger for ‘head-to-tail’ axis development in human embryo

Researchers have mapped, in new detail, the genetic changes that a human embryo goes through as it develops.

14 Jun 2021

Computer method to help predict outcomes and tailor treatments for patients with inherited heart diseases

Clinicians and scientists analysed how individual genetic changes affect the heart muscle and created a new computer tool to integrate genomic ...

8 Jun 2021

Sanger Institute human genetics researcher honoured by EMBO

Professor Matthew Hurles, Head of Human Genetics, becomes an elected member of the European Molecular Biology Organization

8 Jun 2021

Winning Cambridgeshire students design card game inspired by the Human Cell Atlas

Game will be developed and feature in nationwide exhibition

3 Jun 2021

New genetic variants lead to diagnoses for children with developmental disorders

By analysing parts of the genome that do not code for proteins, researchers have identified seven variants linked to developmental disorders.

28 May 2021

Genetic study identifies risk for some childhood cancer patients developing secondary leukaemia and will help inform treatment plan

New study used whole genome sequencing to gain further understanding of why some children develop secondary leukaemia after neuroblastoma treatment

27 May 2021

Atlas of malaria parasite gene activity provides new targets for drugs and vaccines

Researchers have mapped in fine detail the genetic changes malaria parasites go through as they prepare to infect people.

27 May 2021

Genomics in a pandemic - Shedding light on the invisible

Experts from the COVID-19 Genomics UK Consortium discuss sequencing SARS-CoV-2, variants, and viral fitness landscapes.

27 May 2021

‘Rescue mutations’ that suppress harmful DNA changes could shed light on origins of genetic disorders

The biological phenomenon may play an important role in genetic diseases such as cancer or rare developmental disorders, and explain why ...

26 May 2021

Discovery of vaccine target for devastating livestock disease could change lives of millions in sub-Saharan Africa

The findings raise the possibility of identifying vaccine targets for trypanosome species that cause the deadly human infections sleeping sickness and ...

18 May 2021

Car manufacturing, cellular biology and COVID

Rachel Nelson, head of the Cellular Generation and Phenotyping (CGaP) facility, reflects on managing science at scale, including the lessons from industries as far apart as car manufacturing and Silicon Valley.

18 May 2021

Unparallelled insights into how our bodies develop from a single cell

Knowing what happens during normal development could help us to understand genetic diseases that arise during pregnancy

13 May 2021

Maturation Block - Redefining Childhood Cancers

Using the latest genome sequencing techniques, Dr Sam Behjati is revealing the journey that cells take on their way to becoming cancerous, and how we might stop them.

11 May 2021

Identifying the rise of multi-drug resistant E. coli

Largest genomic study of E. coli has tracked the rise of multi-drug resistance (MDR) in Norway.

10 May 2021

Dyslexia and neurodiversity in the workplace

Staff share their experiences of dyslexia and how it has affected their careers in science.

4 May 2021

Diversity and Inclusion in Science

The Equality in Science group and the Race Equity Network at the Wellcome Genome Campus welcomed inspirational speakers last year. Read their reflections on racism, diversity and inclusion in science.

30 Apr 2021

Championing Team Science

Professor Muzlifah Haniffa shares her thoughts achieving large-scale science.

30 Apr 2021

New genetic target for blood cancer treatment

Researchers have identified a vulnerability in some cases of acute myeloid leukaemia that could be harnessed for targeted treatment of these ...

29 Apr 2021

New era of quality and scale in genome sequencing will drive biological discovery

Publication of 16 high-quality vertebrate reference genomes establishes standards for biodiversity genomics

28 Apr 2021

Major advance enables study of genetic mutations in any tissue

Analysis of blood, colon, brain and muscle tissue indicates cell division is not the primary cause of somatic mutations

27 Apr 2021

From investment banking to genomics and health

Meet Olivier Seret, Principal Software Developer working in the Infection Genomics team.

26 Apr 2021

Novel drug type for blood cancer entering clinical trials

First drug to target a specific RNA-modifying protein will start clinical trials in 2022 against acute myeloid leukaemia

22 Apr 2021

Taking lockdown baking to a whole new level

New exhibition explores the science of cancer and ageing, through the medium of food and cooking.

20 Apr 2021

Differing immune responses discovered in asymptomatic cases versus those with severe COVID-19

Using data from the Human Cell Atlas, researchers have identified the differences in immune cells’ response in those who had no ...

16 Apr 2021

Genetic variants identified that impact immune cells' functioning

Researchers have combined genome-wide sequencing and functional profiling of immune cells to understand more about the impact of genetic variants on ...

12 Apr 2021

New genetic drug target for treatment resistant colorectal cancer

Researchers have identified a new potential drug target for treating some types of advanced colorectal cancers.

7 Apr 2021

‘Patchwork’ tumours prevalent across multiple cancer types

Scientists have confirmed that tumour evolution is driven by changes that benefit the cancer, and these lead to a wide range ...

31 Mar 2021

New DERMATLAS project will create world's most comprehensive public resource of rare skin tumour genomes

This project will document the genomes of around 70 rare skin tumours to build a map of how these cancers form ...

30 Mar 2021

Genetic link to male infertility identified

Men who carry a certain subtype of Y chromosome are more likely to experience genetic mutations that lead to low sperm ...

29 Mar 2021

Fighting Pathogens with Data and Partnerships

"Data analysis in genomics means that you can work in something that is meaningful."

25 Mar 2021

Salivary gland cells revealed as sites of COVID-19 infection

Human Cell Atlas findings point to role for saliva in SARS-CoV-2 transmission

24 Mar 2021

New addition to COSMIC database will collate available drugs to target cancer mutations

The Actionability resource identifies relationships between types of cancer, specific mutations and available drugs

23 Mar 2021

CRISPR study identifies gene that plays key role in metastasis of cancers to the lungs

Over-expression of LRRN4CL was linked to cancer spread in colon, breast and bladder cancers in humans

18 Mar 2021

Project to understand beginnings of rare childhood cancer awarded innovation funding

Sam Behjati and collaborators at University College London hope to identify new treatment targets by uncovering foetal origins of rhabdomysarcoma.

17 Mar 2021

SARS-CoV-2 infects cells via specific viral entry factors that are more abundant in elderly, men and smokers

These findings offer a molecular explanation for the reported differences in disease severity for COVID-19 patients depending on age, gender and ...

16 Mar 2021

From Scorpions to Skin Cancer

Dr Daniela Robles-Espinoza recently joined the Sanger Institute as an International Fellow. She works on acral melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer affecting people in Latin America

11 Mar 2021

Genomic surveillance – the world’s binoculars focused on infectious diseases

Monitoring the microorganisms that cause COVID-19, malaria, cholera and a whole range of other diseases enables researchers to track outbreaks, spot emerging drug resistance and plan interventions.

10 Mar 2021

Placenta is a dumping ground for genetic defects

The study is the first high-resolution survey of the genomic architecture of the human placenta, revealing specific patterns of mutation that ...

9 Mar 2021

Full evolutionary journey of hospital superbug mapped for the first time

Sanger Institute researchers and their collaborators have published the full genetic timeline of the bacterium, Enterococcus faecalis showing the influence of ...

8 Mar 2021

Students invited to create a card game inspired by the Human Cell Atlas

How to build a Human: Design a card game challenge

8 Mar 2021

Virtual event celebrates Equality and Diversity Champions from the Wellcome Genome Campus

Winners of the Best Practice Awards are announced for International Women’s Day

5 Mar 2021

Reverse mentoring: Promoting diversity and positive culture change

Alice Matimba and Martin Dougherty reflect on their experiences of reverse mentoring, and how it can play a key role in promoting positive organisational and research culture.

3 Mar 2021

Genomics study identifies routes of transmission of coronavirus in care homes

Genome sequencing was combined with detailed epidemiological information to examine the impact of COVID-19 on care homes and to discover how ...

3 Mar 2021

New search engine for single cell atlases

New software tool allows researchers to rapidly search datasets from single-cell sequencing

3 Mar 2021

Origin of childhood cancer malignant rhabdoid tumour discovered

Researchers identified two drugs that could be used to overcome the genetic root of the disease, resuming normal development and bringing ...

3 Mar 2021

Sanger Institute researcher wins Pezcoller Foundation EACR Rising Star Award

Congratulations to Dr Sam Behjati, who receives the Award in recognition of his potential to make significant contributions to cancer research

24 Feb 2021

Open data on malaria genomes will help combat drug resistance

The release represents the world’s largest resource of genomic data on malaria parasite evolution and drug resistance

23 Feb 2021

Gene that helps control egg’s journey sheds light on why ectopic pregnancy may occur

Study details the first evidence of gene regulation in the transit of eggs from the ovaries to the uterus in mammals

18 Feb 2021

Lab-grown ‘mini-bile ducts’ used to repair human livers in regenerative medicine first

For the first time, this new study has successfully created ‘mini-organs’ in the lab, that could help patients with liver damage

18 Feb 2021

Scientists identify over 140,000 virus species in the human gut, half of which are new to science

The results form the basis of the highly-curated Gut Phage Database (GPD) which will be an invaluable resource for those studying ...

12 Feb 2021

New COVID-19 saliva testing strategy could translate into easy-to-use home device

The new testing approach would be easier to collect and simpler to process in the laboratory than the current nasal-swab process.

11 Feb 2021

International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2021

Just 30 per cent of researchers worldwide, only 35 per cent of all students enrolled in STEM-related fields of study are women, and data suggests that the impacts of COVID-19 are disproportionately affecting female researchers more than their male counterparts.

5 Feb 2021

New drug targets for childhood cancer neuroblastoma identified

All neuroblastomas arise from developmental cells not normally found in children, making them a promising target for drug development

5 Feb 2021

Sequencing COVID: our latest stats

As the sequencing hub of COG-UK, the Sanger Institute is sequencing the genomes of coronavirus samples from across the country. Get our latest numbers.

28 Jan 2021

Sanger Institute joins Wellcome Leap Global Network dedicated to accelerated breakthroughs in human health

Charter group of 21 world-class institutions representing a network of over 150,000 researchers across six continents sign agreement that sets ...

21 Jan 2021

Developmental origins of eczema and psoriasis discovered

Skin Cell Atlas points to new drug targets for inflammatory diseases

11 Jan 2021

Snail hotels, 3D printed robots and custom clips

Engineering solutions to genomic research

21 Dec 2020

20 Things We Learned in 2020

This has been a year that none of us will forget in a hurry. The Institute is immensely proud of the way our staff have pulled together, and the work we have managed to achieve

18 Dec 2020

Cell atlas of tropical disease parasite may hold key to new treatments

The atlas of 13 distinct cell types at the start of the Schistosoma mansoni's development will aid vaccine and treatment ...

18 Dec 2020

Darwin Tree of Life: Looking back on 2020

Despite restrictions, 2020 has been a busy year for the Darwin Tree of Life Project. We take a look at some of this year’s achievements and highlights.

15 Dec 2020

Ten artists to create artworks for global research project mapping the human body

Human Cell Atlas explored through art science collaboration

7 Dec 2020

Gut research identifies key cellular changes associated with childhood-onset Crohn’s Disease

Gut Cell Atlas reveals gut development mechanisms

1 Dec 2020

Dr Sam Behjati selected as an EMBO Young Investigator

Congratulations to Sanger Institute cancer researcher, Dr Sam Behjati, who has been recognised for his work on the developmental origins of ...

19 Nov 2020

COG-UK computing effort wins collaboration award for COVID-19 work

HPCwire award recognises consortium's sequencing of tens of thousands of viral genomes

16 Nov 2020

Wellcome Sanger Institute and COG-UK receive £12.2M UK Government investment for COVID-19 real-time genomic surveillance system

Institute researchers will support the COVID-19 Genomics UK consortium's work by providing high-throughput virus genome sequencing, creating surveillance software to ...

11 Nov 2020

Sanger Faculty to co-lead new Italian Genomics Research Centre

Nicole Soranzo will join the Human Technopole Institute to establish its dual programmes of Population and Medical Genomics and Functional Genomics ...

10 Nov 2020

Stand up science

Join us for an evening of science comedy

4 Nov 2020

Uncovering the origin of rare childhood cancer guides treatment

Bilateral neuroblastoma cancers in a patient can arise independently from each other, at the very earliest stages of life

4 Nov 2020

Why protecting the brain against infection takes guts

Gut microbes educate antibody producing cells that guard the brain

3 Nov 2020

Sequencing COVID – what now?

Helping to track coronavirus outbreaks.

28 Oct 2020

Human Cell Atlas projects increase diversity of sample donors

Funding from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative enables tissue samples from more diverse ethnic backgrounds

26 Oct 2020

Sanger Institute welcomes Wellcome's new science strategy

Director Mike Stratton outlines the opportunities and continuing support that Wellcome's new strategy provides for Sanger researchers

22 Oct 2020

Sequencing COVID-19 at the Sanger Institute

This photo essay goes behind the scenes of the effort to sequence the genome of the COVID-19 virus at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.

14 Oct 2020

Study linking 28 genes to developmental disorders will mean diagnoses for around 500 families

Researchers estimate that approximately another 1,000 genes linked to developmental issues have yet to be found

14 Oct 2020

Update to COSMIC drives precision oncology

The Cancer Mutation Census combines biological, biochemical and population data to enable users to understand which DNA mutations drive human cancers

12 Oct 2020

Equity, diversity and inclusion in science

To celebrate Black History Month, Your Digital Mentor Podcast released a special episode. Academics from across the globe discuss inequalities in science and how things need to change.

12 Oct 2020

Novel map reveals how immune cells fight and remember infections

Mouse immune study gives pointers for development of vaccines and immune therapies

7 Oct 2020

Comeback of drug-resistant neglected tropical disease tracked through genomic surveillance

Study shows that re-emergence was likely caused by latent infections in untreated asymptomatic people

5 Oct 2020

Song Chen to lead research group in Cellular Genetics Programme

This new group will develop powerful, cutting-edge technologies to map individual cells in the brain and other tissues, to understand how ...

1 Oct 2020

Cause of 1990s Argentina cholera epidemic uncovered

Work influenced Argentine health policy, where the national alert surveillance system now uses whole-genome sequencing to distinguish between pandemic and non-pandemic ...

1 Oct 2020

DNA changes in healthy bladder provide clues on how cancer arises

The research reveals a huge diversity in the number and types of changes between individuals, indicating that a wide range of ...

1 Oct 2020

Xylem, Mentoring, and the Worldwide Fantasy Food Tour

Dr Christine Boinett talks about Black History Month, her new international podcast on mentoring and her research on drug-resistant bacteria.

24 Sep 2020

Highly detailed map of human heart could guide personalised heart treatments

Heart Cell Atlas will illuminate our understanding of heart health and disease

24 Sep 2020

Key genetic clue missing in fight against superbugs

Analysis shows importance of including plasmids when tracking antibiotic resistance in bacterial populations

23 Sep 2020

Ambitious genomics project seeks to understand how aquatic species thrive together

The Aquatic Symbiosis Project will empower researchers to answer important questions about the ecology and evolution of symbiosis

21 Sep 2020

Key discovery in psoriatic arthritis points way for developing targeted treatments

Genetic evidence points to potential single cause for the disease

18 Sep 2020

A day in the life of a cell technician: CRISPR, teamwork, and character cells

Life in the cellular generation and phenotyping labs at the Sanger Institute.

18 Sep 2020

Fire on Wellcome Genome Campus detected and extinguished quickly

The fire was contained to one room and the Campus is safe and fully operational

17 Sep 2020

Future of genomic research at risk without greater public trust in how genetic data is shared

Survey finds lack of familiarity with genomics and how it can benefit society

16 Sep 2020

How Dantu blood group protects against malaria - and how all humans could benefit

Red blood cells have a higher surface tension that prevents them from being invaded by Plasmodium parasite

3 Sep 2020

Genetic information can predict predisposition to blood diseases

Studies identify bulk of genetic variation that influences blood cell traits

28 Aug 2020

Unprecedented national effort by UK immunologists to search for answers on COVID-19

Sanger Institute researchers join national research projects to investigate the role of our immune system in tackling COVID-19

27 Aug 2020

Mosquito immune system mapped to help fight malaria

Atlas will be valuable resource for understanding and controlling mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, Dengue and Zika

25 Aug 2020

Inspiring prisoners and their families with genomics

“I want to inspire kids, let them know that though they are having a really tough time now, there is light at the end of the tunnel. I want them to know they can do well, whatever happens.”

19 Aug 2020

The race to sequence SARS-CoV-2

The Sanger Institute is built for high-throughput science – but the project to sequence coronavirus demanded more samples were handled more quickly than ever before.

11 Aug 2020

Former Sanger Institute Head of Pathogens receives the 2020 Albert B. Sabin Gold Medal

Professor Gordon Dougan awarded Sabin Vaccine Institute prize for his contributions to vaccinology

6 Aug 2020

From locked down to reaching out: re-inventing public engagement for the “new normal”

Since the Campus closed to visitors in March, staff have been finding new ways of engaging with people who want to find out more about our work.

4 Aug 2020

New podcast to provide digital mentoring tips for early career researchers

Your Digital Mentor launches with first episode on the mentoring experience

3 Aug 2020

Genomes within Genomes

Hiding in the genome of a newly-sequenced red colobus monkey, there was a second species - a parasite descended from malaria.

30 Jul 2020

New drug targets for lethal brain cancer discovered

Researchers engineered a new mouse model for studying glioblastoma, the most aggressive type of brain cancer

27 Jul 2020

Artificial intelligence finds patterns of mutations and survival in tumour images

AI detects patterns of 167 different mutations and predicts patient survival in 28 cancer types

27 Jul 2020

Impact of The Technician Commitment

Kelly Vere, Programme Director of the Technician Commitment, explores the progress of the scheme across the UK.

21 Jul 2020

Chronic inflammation alters the evolution of cells in the colon, study finds

Researchers have compared diseased colon with healthy tissue to better understand how inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is linked to an increased ...

17 Jul 2020

Building an inclusive culture in all we do

Launching a new Behavioural Competency Framework.

16 Jul 2020

From bacterial behaviours to COVID-19

Sushmita Sridhar has paused her work on a gastroenteritis-causing bacterium to help diagnose the virus that causes COVID-19.

13 Jul 2020

Explore COVID-19 science in action with new Human Cell Atlas animation

Mapping COVID-19: How the Human Cell Atlas enhances our understanding of the disease

13 Jul 2020

International Common Disease Alliance releases action plan to drive next phase of genetic understanding of common disease

Report defines priorities, proposes international collaborations to accelerate progress from genetic maps to biological mechanisms to medical treatments

8 Jul 2020

Launch of virtual Sanger Seminar series

Join us for a new series of virtual seminars, open to all, which will present the latest research from the Sanger ...

7 Jul 2020

Drug screens and CRISPR combine to help make better cancer drugs

Improved understanding of the biological mechanisms underpinning drug response will enable faster, more efficient drug development

2 Jul 2020

Sarah Teichmann, an international pioneer of single cell research

We spoke to the Head of Cellular Genetics at the Sanger Institute about her life, career and the Human Cell Atlas.

26 Jun 2020

The first draft human genome at 20

A revolution powering today’s advances in genomics, biology and medicine

26 Jun 2020

‘It had better be good’

We reflect on what followed the publication of the human genome sequence for the Sanger Institute, and what the future holds.

24 Jun 2020

Restarting Science

Staff are starting to return to the Wellcome Genome Campus.

18 Jun 2020

Update to DECIPHER brings power to clinical genomics

Update to rare disease database allows researchers and clinicians to input, interpret and share all types of genomic variants in all ...

16 Jun 2020

Supporting Pride Month at the Wellcome Genome Campus

We are celebrating Pride Month with virtual events, and we are pleased to have joined the Stonewall Diversity Champions programme. We believe in the power of a workplace that is equal.

11 Jun 2020

Denisovan DNA influences immune system of modern day Oceanian populations

Previously-unknown variations in medically-important genes will be valuable resource for the field of precision medicine

10 Jun 2020

My postdoc and my dad’s dementia

This carers week, postdoctoral fellow Lia Chappell shares her experiences.

8 Jun 2020

Genomic surveillance of antibiotic resistance in the Philippines established

Bacterial resistance to last-line antibiotic mapped in the Philippines

8 Jun 2020

Sanger researcher wins prize from European Society for Human Genetics

Gosia Trynka awarded 2020 Leena Peltonen Prize for her outstanding research into human immune diseases

1 Jun 2020

From cancer, stem cells and organoids to COVID-19

Sanger scientists speak about their new roles in sequencing SARS-CoV-2 genomes.

28 May 2020

4,000 years of contact, conflict and cultural change had little genetic impact on Near East

Only three periods had lasting effect on genetics of local people in Beirut

22 May 2020

Analysis of COVID-19 Genomes reveals large numbers of introductions to the UK in March

The data reports, published by the COVID-19 Genomics UK Consortium (COG-UK), show the value in mapping COVID-19 lineages across the UK ...

18 May 2020

An automated method for cell type discovery

Identifying cell types from single-cell RNA sequencing data is now more efficient than ever

18 May 2020

Honour with Athena SWAN Silver Award

The Wellcome Sanger Institute and its associated organisations have been awarded by Athena SWAN for commitment to advancing women's careers ...

18 May 2020

Potentially cancerous cells kept in check by competitive neighbours, study of oesophagus finds

Hope that understanding of the 'rules of the game' of clonal competition will lead to new therapies

18 May 2020

Welcoming Athena SWAN Silver

"We are deeply committed to our values of equality, diversity and inclusion and these are fundamental to our work."

13 May 2020

Sanger scientists recognised by the Academy of Medical Sciences

Six Sanger researchers – past and present – have been welcomed into Fellowship of the prestigious organisation

13 May 2020

‘These lowly organised creatures’: Earthworm sample collecting at the Sanger Institute

Few organisms have, as Darwin himself wrote, played such an important role in the history of the world.

7 May 2020

Sanger scientist receives Chan Zuckerberg Initiative support for COVID-19 study

Roser Vento-Tormo will use single-cell technologies to understand human immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection and the progression of the disease

6 May 2020

New computational method unravels single-cell data from multiple people

Souporcell could assist personalised medicine and malaria research

4 May 2020

Prising open the scallop genome

As part of the Sanger Institute’s 25 Genomes Project, the king scallop, Pecten maximus, had its genome sequenced.

29 Apr 2020

Head of Cellular Genetics elected Fellow of the Royal Society

Sarah Teichmann is recognised for her pioneering computational biology and genomics work, leading to the Human Cell Atlas initiative

28 Apr 2020

New tools to tackle malaria: translating from cutting edge research to real-world applications

This World Malaria Day we look at three ambitious projects, backed by the Sanger Institute Technology Transfer Office, which are tackling areas key to eliminating malaria.

27 Apr 2020

Puzzles and Parasites

Dr Stephen Doyle, in the Sanger Institute’s Parasites and Microbes Programme, has just been awarded a new UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship to use genomic approaches at population to single cell resolution to understand how H. contortus evolves in response to drug treatments.

27 Apr 2020

Sanger researcher backed through flagship fellowship

Dr Stephen Doyle has been awarded a UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship to explore the evolution of drug responses in parasitic worms

24 Apr 2020

Sanger Institute to extend funding for Postdoctoral Fellows affected by COVID-19 shutdown

Funding will be extended for six months, including for those funded by third parties

23 Apr 2020

Key nose cells identified as likely COVID-19 entry points

Study with Human Cell Atlas could help understand transmission of the virus

22 Apr 2020

Normal human uterus is colonised by clones with cancer-driving mutations that arise early in life, study finds

Hope that insights into earliest stages of uterine cancer development will help to tackle one of most common female cancers

21 Apr 2020

Tackling COVID-19 at the Sanger Institute

Staff at the Sanger Institute have joined the fight against the global COVID-19 pandemic.

14 Apr 2020

Experience matters for immune cells - discovery of T cells response spectrum could help understand immune diseases

Study could help find better drug targets for asthma and rheumatoid arthritis

8 Apr 2020

Mapping the Human Cell Atlas - charting the body’s cellular world

The Human Cell Atlas is being used to guide future research into human development, biology, health, and disease.

3 Apr 2020

Raising Awareness of Neurodiversity in the Scientific Workplace

In February, we welcomed Sara Rankin, Professor of Leukocyte and Stem Cell Biology at the National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, to speak to us about neurodiversity in the science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) workplace.

23 Mar 2020

Sanger Institute scientist wins 2021 Biochemical Society award

Roser Vento-Tormo awarded an Early Career Research Award

23 Mar 2020

UK launches whole genome sequence alliance to map spread of coronavirus

The Wellcome Sanger Institute will collaborate with expert groups across the country to analyse the genetic code of COVID-19 samples circulating ...

20 Mar 2020

Sanger Institute and Wellcome Genome Campus temporarily closed to all but critical research

In response to the rapidly changing COVID-19 pandemic, the Sanger Institute and its neighbours on the Wellcome Genome Campus will close ...

19 Mar 2020

Global human genomes reveal rich genetic diversity shaped by complex evolutionary history

Study will help identify the susceptibility of different populations to disease

19 Mar 2020

The duty of care: a genetic balancing act?

Genetic testing is becoming a standard part of UK healthcare, with plans to expand its use. But who does this information belong to, and who decides who it is shared with?

16 Mar 2020

New research on brain structure highlights cells linked to Alzheimer’s and autism

Astrocytes organised into layers in similar way to neurons

13 Mar 2020

Being an LGBT+ Ally and Supporting Diversity

Jim Smith joined us at the Wellcome Genome Campus last year as part of the LGBT+ Network and Equality in Science talk series.

9 Mar 2020

Dinosaurs and the high seas

Eugene Gardner is a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Human Genetics Programme. His research focuses on the genetics of developmental disorders.

6 Mar 2020

Equality and Diversity Champions celebrated at the Wellcome Genome Campus

Winners of the Best Practice Awards are announced for International Women’s Day

20 Feb 2020

Origins of immune system mapped, opening doors for new cancer immunotherapies

Cell atlas of human thymus could help engineer improved therapeutic T cells

19 Feb 2020

Otter genome to help understand genetic legacy of pollution crisis and secure species’ future

Genome will unlock wealth of data stored in DNA archives in bid to understand response to environmental changes

17 Feb 2020

Gut bacteria’s interactions with immune system mapped

Cell atlas could reveal why some gut diseases affect specific areas

16 Feb 2020

Cancer across the animal kingdom

Cancer, ageing and somatic mutation rates across species.

16 Feb 2020

Sepsis and precision medicine: is it all in your genes?

Using gene expression data to stratify patients.

15 Feb 2020

Sequencing and the Tree of Life

Progress and promise of the Earth Biogenome Project - a mission to sequence all known eukaryotic species.

11 Feb 2020

The Human Cell Atlas: Understanding health to combat disease

Dr Kerstin Meyer, Principal Staff Scientist at the Sanger Institute, explains what it’s like to work on a such a huge, collaborative endeavour

5 Feb 2020

Background information about the ICGC/TCGA Pan-Cancer Project

Overview of the Pan-Cancer Project

5 Feb 2020

Cancer-causing culprits will be caught by their DNA fingerprints

Study within Pan-Cancer Project will help research into cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatments

5 Feb 2020

Comprehensive study finds mutations in non-coding genome are infrequent drivers of cancer

Findings suggest efforts to develop new cancer treatments should primarily focus on protein-coding genes

5 Feb 2020

Genomics in the cloud

The huge, international Pan-Cancer project is the first large-scale use of distributed cloud computing in genomics. As genomics becomes a big data science, it is likely to be the first of many

5 Feb 2020

Unprecedented exploration generates most comprehensive map of cancer genomes charted to date

Pan-Cancer Project discovers causes of previously unexplained cancers, pinpoints cancer-causing events and zeroes in on mechanisms of development

4 Feb 2020

Red and grey squirrel genomes could hold the key to the survival of reds in Britain and Ireland

Susceptibility to squirrel pox and genetic fitness of fragmented populations are key questions for red squirrel researchers

3 Feb 2020

Tailor-made vaccines could almost halve rates of serious bacterial disease

Innovative study points the way to more effective vaccine design

31 Jan 2020

Statement on Brexit by the Wellcome Sanger Institute, the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) and the Francis Crick Institute

Statement on Brexit

29 Jan 2020

Never too late to quit: protective cells could cut risk of lung cancer for ex-smokers

Ex-smokers have four times more genetically healthy cells than smokers, helping to protect them against lung cancer

10 Jan 2020

2020 vision: supporting the people behind our science

Read about our ongoing and upcoming work to ensure that all our staff and students from all backgrounds can thrive

5 Jan 2020

“If you know, there is a Nobel prize for you!” – Searching for the causes of cancer in Czechia

In a study spanning five continents, researchers are hunting for tell-tale ‘signatures’ left in DNA by the unknown causes of cancer.

24 Dec 2019

#SangerAdvent

For our advent calendar on Twitter, this year we celebrated our staff from around the world. Each day, someone told us how they celebrate the festive period in their home country.

20 Dec 2019

Analysis of CRISPR-Cas9 datasets leads to largest genetic screen resource for cancer research

Study will help narrow down the list of targets for the next generation of cancer treatments

16 Dec 2019

Dr Konstantinos Tzelepis receives ASH–BSH Abstract Achievement Award for leukaemia target research

Award-winning abstract on METTL3 presented at American Society of Hematology meeting

16 Dec 2019

Researchers identify over 140 genes linked to immune system regulation

First extensive immune profiling of mice reveals a vast catalogue of genes that regulate the immune system and model human disease

9 Dec 2019

Appointments and changes to the Genome Research Limited Board

At the GRL Board meeting on 2 December 2019, David Willetts announced his intention to step down as Chair because of ...

5 Dec 2019

Researchers identify new possibilities for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

Two molecular pathways found to be integral to maintaining balance in the digestive system

5 Dec 2019

Root of childhood kidney cancer discovered

Pre-cancerous signatures found in healthy tissue point the way towards new treatment options

3 Dec 2019

Causality and the genetic thesaurus

Manuel Tardaguila is a postdoctoral research scientist in Nicole Soranzo’s group. The group focuses on the application of large-scale genomic analysis to unravel the spectrum of human genetic variation associated with cardiometabolic diseases.

25 Nov 2019

Best of both worlds

A degree apprenticeship offers the opportunity to earn whilst studying.

19 Nov 2019

From childhood cancer to mapping human development: Pioneering scientist awarded 2019 Foulkes Foundation medal

Congratulations to Professor Muzlifah Haniffa, who has been recognised for her work on the immune system and childhood cancer

18 Nov 2019

Dr Sam Behjati wins Liddy Shriver Early Career Research Award

Congratulations to Sanger Institute cancer researcher, Dr Sam Behjati, who has been recognised for his work in sarcoma cancer genomics

14 Nov 2019

New malaria drug targets identified in liver stage of life cycle

Hope that new liver-stage drugs will help to counter the threat of antimicrobial resistance to current blood-stage medicines

8 Nov 2019

Ambitious project to map genomes of all life on British Isles funded by Wellcome

An unprecedented insight to the diverse range of species on the British Isles will be made possible by Wellcome funding to ...

31 Oct 2019

Measles infection wipes our immune system's memory, leaving us vulnerable to other diseases

Research explains why children often catch other infections after measles, and highlights the importance of vaccination

31 Oct 2019

Perfume, jazz and immunogenetics

Dr Velislava Petrova is a Postdoctoral Fellow working in immunogenetics in Dr Carl Anderson’s group at the Sanger Institute. Currently she is working at the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) Office of Innovation in Geneva

28 Oct 2019

Scientists to Create a “Gut Cell Atlas” With Funding from the Helmsley Charitable Trust

Researchers will examine both healthy and diseased intestinal tissue to identify key cell types involved in Crohn’s disease

23 Oct 2019

Accumulation of DNA mutations found in healthy liver leads to disease

Largest study of its kind seeks to better understand how liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma develop

23 Oct 2019

Uncovering the pathway to colon cancer

Scientists identify patterns of genetic changes in healthy colon tissue, giving insight into the very earliest stages of cancer

15 Oct 2019

Resurrection of over 50,000-year-old gene reveals how malaria parasite jumped from gorillas to humans

Discovery of molecular pathway is valuable example of how a pathogen can switch from one host species to another

15 Oct 2019

Sanger Institute refutes allegations of misuse of African DNA data from partner institutions

Two investigations by two separate experts found that no wrongdoing took place

14 Oct 2019

Science on a bike

One man, one bike, and lots of genomics.

11 Oct 2019

Jumping genes can cause rare developmental disorders in children

Diagnoses achieved for three more children in the Deciphering Developmental Disorders project

9 Oct 2019

First cell map of developing human liver reveals how blood and immune systems develop

Resource improves understanding of normal development and will support efforts to tackle diseases, such as leukaemia, that can form during early ...

9 Oct 2019

Fresh insights could lead to new treatments for liver disease

The fight against liver disease could be helped by the discovery of cells that cause liver scarring

8 Oct 2019

Pioneering Computer Science: Celebrating Ada Lovelace Day and the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering and maths

Ada Lovelace Day celebrates women in Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM). In honour of the day, we asked some of our software developers and bioinformaticians to tell us about women who have inspired them in their own work. Here are some of their suggestions.

8 Oct 2019

Sanger Institute cancer researcher’s innovation recognised

Congratulations to Dr Mathew Garnett who has received a National Cancer Research Institute Excellence Award for his research into the use ...

3 Oct 2019

A dangerous new Salmonella strain is emerging in sub-Saharan Africa

Researchers have discovered the first extensively drug resistant non-typhoidal Salmonella in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

26 Sep 2019

Human kidney map charts our growing immune defence

New cell atlas reveals immune cells present in zones of human kidney

25 Sep 2019

The biology of the brain

Studying mouse brain development can give insights into human neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders, as well as help diagnose rare genetic conditions

23 Sep 2019

Scientists hone in on DNA differences behind immune diseases

Search could help find drug targets for developing new treatments

19 Sep 2019

Salmonella responsible for bloodstream infections in central Africa resistant to nearly all drugs

Strain of dangerous pathogen shown to have developed resistance to last-line-of-defence drug

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Developmental Lung Cell Atlas uncovers 144 cell states

New genomes to help protect Britain’s wild and ancient apples

Following insect footprints to improve crop resilience and monitor pollinator biodiversity

New hope for kidney cancer treatment using existing drugs

Breast cancer spread uncovered by new molecular microscopy

Year

Type

Topic/ focus

Search

Brazil, bats and GoaT

Developmental Lung Cell Atlas uncovers 144 cell states

Software to sort samples and sequence species at scale

New genomes to help protect Britain’s wild and ancient apples

Following insect footprints to improve crop resilience and monitor pollinator biodiversity

Springtails, fly testes and the secrets of strange reproduction

New hope for kidney cancer treatment using existing drugs

The Power of Resilience: Attending the UK’s largest tech event for women

Asexuality in STEM: Definitions, misconceptions, and queer joy

An ancient foe and a modern arms race

Breast cancer spread uncovered by new molecular microscopy

Sequencing anything, anytime, anywhere

Understand, predict, engineer

Sepsis and Covid-19 patients most at risk predicted with genetic model

Representation matters

Wellcome Sanger Institute announces three inaugural Excellence Fellows

Resistance genes mapped for drugs to treat parasitic worms

From genomes to medicines: an interview with Ian Dunham

Sanger researcher elected to U.S. National Academy of Medicine

Celebrating women in STEM

Orcinus orca: How a tragic stranding helped us dive into the killer whale genome

Pockets of resistance found in survey of pathogen diversity

I Am A Biologist

Biodiversity genomics event returns

You have to be in it, to win it - association with Horizon Europe

Sanger joins Europe’s drive to reverse biodiversity loss through genomics research

How do you sequence over 240,000 whole human genomes?

Our UK Biobank Journey: 3 years and over 240,000 human genomes

Experiencing Sanger's science first hand

Butterflies, peacock spiders, and rapid speciation

Study develops new way of identifying cancer cells

Sanger researchers share in grant to develop lupus treatments

Genomics: A challenging field full of opportunity

Study zeroes in on genes involved in Crohn’s disease

From genomes to vaccines: lessons from the pneumococcus

Genomics empowers vaccine makers to tackle shapeshifting bacteria

Origins of germ cell tumours unravelled giving possible opportunities for future treatment

Immune cells acquire genomic scars in a lifetime defending against infection

Finishing genome puzzles

First map of immune system connections reveals new therapeutic opportunities

Unlocking surface proteins

Genomics drives UK life science success, new report finds

Catalysing collaboration: from the commercial sector to Sanger

Genetic changes that affect the risk of developing pre-leukaemia identified

Mutation pathway to bowel cancer discovered

World's largest database for predicting cancer treatment response based on cancer proteins

New hub to help make global genomic surveillance of disease a reality

Searching for the roots of childhood cancer

First genetic map of one of humans oldest parasites

Cell map of human gonads identifies the cells involved in sex determination

Three Sanger Institute researchers honoured by EMBO

Breath of fresh air

LGBTQ+ scientists who shaped history

Smashing stereotypes in science

Badger genome to enable study of disease, climate change and social interaction

Cellular secrets of ageing unlocked by researchers

Impact of DNA mutations on lifelong blood cell production uncovered

COVID-19: update on SARS-CoV-2 genome sequencing at the Sanger Institute

Completing the puzzle of life on earth

Study tracking T-cell activation over time boosts search for immune disease treatments

Six unbelievable things you probably didn’t know about DNA

Three Sanger scientists recieve prestigious fellowships for their work

Immune cell characteristics mapped across multiple tissues, from early life to adulthood

Wellcome Genome Campus staff commended at Cambridge Independent Science and Technology Awards

Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay to visit Wellcome Genome Campus as full England route revealed

Increased mutations in children can be traced back to mistakes in father’s sperm

Supporting translational research at the Sanger Institute

You can change the world

From genome data to malaria control

Contamination control and walking with dinosaurs

New bacteria in mice associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease