Imperial launches Functional Genomics Network to advance translational research

Last month, the Imperial Excellence in Functional Genomics Network officially launched, with a celebratory event held at the Royal Geographic Society.

The event brought together researchers, clinicians, and academics from across Imperial College London and its partner institutions for an afternoon of talks, discussion, and networking. 

The Network was created to address a major challenge in modern biomedical research: translating genomic data into meaningful clinical outcomes. A key bottleneck is the functional validation of potential disease-causing variants. This step is essential but often slow and resource-intensive, limiting the pace of discovery and its impact on patient care. Imperial College London is home to world-class expertise in computational biology, experimental genetics, bioengineering, and clinical research. However, much of this expertise remains siloed limiting opportunities for collaboration and innovation. The Network aims to bring these strengths together, fostering collaboration, streamlining resources, and accelerating the translation of genetic discoveries into real-world applications. 

The launch began with a welcome from Network lead Dr Vanessa Sancho-Shimizu, from the Department of Infectious Disease, followed by opening remarks from Professors Graham Cooke and Mark Thursz. Each of the Network’s co-leads then introduced their thematic areas of focus: 

• Drs Fleur Dijk and Demetra Georgiou presented on Clinical Genetics
• Dr Ines Cebola discussed Computational and Regulatory Genetics

• Dr Vanessa Sancho-Shimizu covered Molecular and Patient Models  

• Dr Matthew Child introduced work on Genome Editing

• Professor Darryl Overby spoke on the Development and Application of Models
• Dr Kim Reid represented Early Career Researchers

After the presentations, the floor opened for discussion offering attendees a chance to share ideas and shape the Network’s direction. Professor Aubrey Cunnington then highlighted early success stories, before the event closed with a drinks reception. 

Commenting on the event, Network lead, Dr Vanessa Sancho-Shimizu, said: "Over the years at Imperial, I realized that much of the expertise I had been seeking externally was already here within the University.

Many of us were facing questions that could be answered by those within the University. Dr Vanessa Sancho-Shimizu Network lead

We needed a platform to bring people together and amplify our collective strengths."

The objectives of the Functional Genomics Network are to: 

1. Building a cohesive community of genomic researchers and clinicians.  
2. Connecting individuals working across the spectrum of genomic science—from sequence analysis to therapeutic development.
3. Creating specialised working groups with a focus on critical areas such as variant prioritisation, disease modelling, phenotyping, genome editing, and iPSC generation.  
4. Developing collaborative pipelines and shared tools to help improve efficiency, reproducibility, and knowledge sharing. 

To support these goals, the Network will host seminars and workshops that highlight advances in genomic research. Monthly multidisciplinary team (MDT) triage meetings will provide a space to discuss and resolve functional genomics questions, encouraging collaboration and research impact. Matchmaking and networking events will promote new partnerships, while funding initiatives and grant support will help launch joint research ventures. Outreach activities will ensure that the work of the Network reaches patients and the wider public. 

If you’re interested in getting involved, you can join the Network by emailing: fxgenomics-network@imperial.ac.uk.