Sanger Institute joins new network to strengthen ethical standards in genomics
Announced today (29 May), the Nuffield Council on Bioethics, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genomics England, Our Future Health and UK Biobank are partnering to set-up a UK-wide genomic ethics network. The network, established by the Nuffield Council on Bioethics (NCOB), is set to facilitate a collaborative approach to addressing the guidance gaps identified in NCOB’s 2024 report.1,2,3
The Sanger Institute will be a core participant in this network, which will involve identifying where the need for support is greatest, helping to develop resources, and ensuring they are shared effectively. This will help to embed consistent and equitable approaches to genomic research and clinical practice that ultimately improve patient experiences.
Through this work and further engagement with people involved in the genomics community, NCOB identified a clear need for a co-ordinated approach to developing and disseminating ethical best practice in genomics.
NCOB are now taking this learning into practice, building a network that will enable members to exchange knowledge on any ethical issues they experience and identify opportunities for network collaboration on shared issues. This will also support a horizon scan for emerging areas that may require ethical consideration in the future.
The Sanger Institute is looking forward to working with NCOB and the other participants in the network to provide a platform for members to exchange insights, collaborate on shared challenges, and anticipate emerging ethical issues in genomic science — ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes.
“This new network will enable the UK to apply the highest standards to genomic research and healthcare. We are thrilled to be working with Nuffield Council on Bioethics, UK BioBank, Genomics England and Our Future Health to deliver the recommendations from the 2020 Genome UK report.”
Dr Sarion Bowers, Head of Policy and Advocacy at the Wellcome Sanger Institute
“We are proud to support this network’s establishment. Genomics has led to incredible advances in how we diagnose and treat rare conditions and cancers and holds considerable promise in transforming healthcare. However, that cannot be realised without the trust and support of patients, participants, and the wider public.
This network will bring knowledge, diverse expertise and resources together to ensure trustworthiness, transparency and the best ethical practices are right at the heart of the UK’s world-leading genomic research and healthcare system.”
Natalie Banner, Director of Ethics at Genomics England
“We are delighted to be part of this network with other organisations who share our commitment to ethics in genomics research. We’re looking forward to working collaboratively to help the health research community navigate ethical issues, to create the best possible experiences for those taking part in research.”
Dr Raghib Ali, CEO and Chief Medical Officer of Our Future Health
“We’re pleased to be participating in this important new network and engaging in the ethical dimensions of genomics research. We look forward to building on our long-standing relationships with the genomics research community to find collaborative and innovative solutions to the health challenges we face.”
Professor Naomi Allen, Chief Scientist at UK Biobank
“We are delighted to be working with Genomics England, Our Future Health, UK Biobank and the Wellcome Sanger Institute to establish and coordinate a genomics ethics network, which will be shaped by the needs of the genomics community.
“The network will support those working in genomics research and healthcare to negotiate ethical issues, promote consistent approaches approach and, ultimately, create better, more equitable experiences for patients and research participants. We look forward to getting the network up and running as soon as possible.”
Professor Sarah Cunningham-Burley, Chair of the Nuffield Council on Bioethics
