This year marks a monumental milestone for BGI Group as we celebrate our 25th anniversary. From our humble beginnings to becoming one of the world’s leading organizations in genomics, BGI Group has consistently pushed the boundaries of science and technology, transforming healthcare, agriculture, life science education, and borderless collaboration. As we reflect on our journey, we celebrate our achievements and look forward to a future filled with continued innovation and discovery.
The Genesis of BGI Group
The international human genome sequencing consortium at the 5th strategic meeting, August 31, 1999, Hinxton, UK.
Founded in 1999, BGI Group started as a small research group with a big vision: using genetic technology to benefit humanity – “Omics for All”. Our participation and the completion of 1% of the Human Genome Project (HGP) laid the foundation for our future endeavors. This early success showcased our potential and set the stage for our rapid growth.
Read more:
BGI Group Continues to Lead in Life Sciences 22 Years After the Human Genome Project
22 Years On, the Human Genome Project's Impact Continues to Resonate
Pioneering Genomic Research
A BGI technician performing a sequencing operation in the BGI Australia laboratory.
Over the past 25 years, BGI Group has been at the forefront of numerous groundbreaking projects. Following the HGP, our contributions in leading or participating in a series of international big science projects, such as the International HapMap Project, the Thousand Genomes Project, the Earth BioGenome Project, and the MetaHIT Project, have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of human genetics and the world around us.
As of June 2024, these tireless efforts in scientific research have led to the publication of a total of 5,155 scientific research papers, with 603 articles in 'CNNS' publications (the leading academic journals Cell, Nature, New England Journal of Medicine, Science, and their related publications, if any).
Read more:
Birds Study: A Decade of Insights from Genomics
New Study Reveals Insight into the Key Concerns of South China Tiger Conservation
Liu Xin of BGI-Research on EBP: An International Cooperation That Connects and Benefits All Lives
Helping To Understand Biodiversity
The Past and Present Life of Bing Dwen Dwen
Decoding the Mystery of Multiple Sex Chromosomes and Oviparity in Platypus
、
Opening a New Era of Life Science Research with Spatial Technology
BGI researcher examining the world's first spatiotemporal map of brain regeneration.
By developing cutting-edge sequencing technologies and bioinformatics tools, we are opening a new era in life science and driving progress in medical research and personalized medicine.
One notable innovation is BGI's Stereo-seq, a state-of-the-art spatial transcriptomic sequencing technology. Stereo-seq enables researchers to capture spatial gene expression data at an unprecedented resolution, providing a detailed map of cellular activity within tissues. This technology allows for a deeper understanding of the spatial organization of gene expression, which is crucial for studying complex biological systems and disease mechanisms.
By integrating Stereo-seq into our toolkit, we are paving the way for significant advancements in fields such as oncology, neurology, and developmental biology, ultimately enhancing our ability to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases with greater precision.
Read more:
BGI-led Research Builds the World’s First Spatiotemporal Map of Brain Regeneration
Unleashing the Power of Life Sciences: BGI Group's Journey of Technological Advancements
BGI-Led International Team Releases First Panoramic Atlases of Life in Cell
International Scientists Release Most Complete Primate Brain Cell Atlas to Date
International Team Led by BGI Completes First Whole-Body Cell Atlas of a Non-Human Primate
Professor Mu-Ming POO: Spatio-Temporal Omics is a Necessary Means for Us to Study the Brain
Insights from the Researchers on the World’s First Macaque Brain Cortex Atlas
Unlocking the Mysteries of Human Brain and Organ Regeneration Through Genomics
Transforming Healthcare
Researchers at the VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology in Belgium examining the BGI Stereo-seq sequencing chip for melanoma research.
One of BGI Group's most significant contributions has been in healthcare. Our non-invasive prenatal test, NIFTY, has revolutionized prenatal care, providing expectant parents with safe and accurate genetic screening. Additionally, our advancements in cancer genomics and infectious disease research have led to new tools for health screening and disease testing, improving patient outcomes globally.
We have also pioneered gene therapy for severe thalassemia, offering potential cures for this genetic blood disorder. Our joint lab with Mr. Cai Lei focuses on studying Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), aiming to uncover the reason behind this disease for possible treatments. These efforts underscore our commitment to leveraging genomics to enhance healthcare and improve lives worldwide.
Read more:
Dr. Tan Weihong: Encouraging Developments in Precision Medicine for Cancer Treatment with BGI Group
BGI Australia Receives NATA Accreditation for Clinical Whole Exome Sequencing
Combating Thalassemia in Thailand: BGI Group's Pioneering Efforts and Innovative Partnerships
STOmics Reveals the Private Life of Cancer Cells
A Paradigm Shift in Skin Cancer Research
BGI groundbreaking research results in cells that may facilitate advances in organ regeneration
Protecting Our Newborns: Reducing the Toll of Congenital and Delayed Deafness
Agricultural Innovations
Perennial rice brings new hope to the people of Africa.
BGI Group's impact extends beyond healthcare. Our agricultural genomics research has helped to improve crop yields, enhance food security, and promote sustainable farming practices. By sequencing the genomes of various plants and animals, we have provided valuable insights that aid in the development of more resilient and nutritious crops, addressing global challenges such as hunger and malnutrition.
Read more:
Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Draft Sequence of the Rice Genome
Perennial rice named by Science as one of 2022 top 10 scientific breakthroughs
Solving the Global Food Crisis with Cutting-Edge Multi-Omics Research
BGI and Prof. Rajeev Varshney – The Quest for the Genome Architecture of Crops
Solving World Hunger with Climate Change-Ready Crops Through Genomics
Tackling Africa’s Hunger Crisis with Orphan Crops and Genomics
Commitment to Education and Collaboration
On April 26, 2023, BGI Group CEO Yin Ye (left) signed a memorandum of cooperation with Jelena Begović, Minister of Science, Technology Development, and Innovation of Republic of Serbia, strengthening cooperation with Serbia in scientific research, health, and talent training.
At BGI Group, we believe in the power of education and collaboration.
Our commitment to education is evident in our training programs and initiatives designed to inspire the next generation of scientists. By nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for learning and growth, we ensure that the future of genomics is in capable hands.
We have established partnerships with leading research institutions, universities, and healthcare organizations worldwide. By sharing knowledge and resources, we aim to foster a global community dedicated to advancing genomics and improving quality of life.
Read more:
BGI Group Signs Multi-Disciplinary Cooperation with Saudi Arabia
Pioneering Genomics Research through Global Cooperation
Long-time BGI Research Collaborator Honored
Commemorating the First Anniversary of the Establishment of the SpatioTemporal Omics Consortium
BGI Group Strengthens Research and Innovation Cooperation with Serbia
BGI Group Strengthens Cooperation with Serbia in Scientific Research, Health, and Talent Training
BGI Group Reinforces Mutual Cooperation with Thailand
BGI Group Chairman Visits Saudi Arabia in Support of the Country’s ‘Vision 2030’
BGI Group Signs MOUs in Indonesia to Support Genomics Development
BGI and ICBA partner to establish Desert Life Science Laboratory
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we are filled with gratitude for the support and collaboration of our partners, employees, and the global scientific community. Our journey has been marked by remarkable achievements, but we are just getting started.
The future holds immense possibilities for BGI Group. With ongoing advancements in genomics, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology, we are poised to make even greater strides in improving human health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. Our commitment to innovation, excellence, and social responsibility will continue to guide us as we embark on the next chapter of our journey.