By Business & Finance 
Maurice Treacy (Founder/VP, Strategic Alliance), Paul Thurk (Founder/board member), Sean Ennis (Founder/Chief Scientific Officer), Daniel Crowley (Founder/CEO), GMI
In our Ones to Watch section, we highlight some of the top movers and shakers. This week we feature Genomics Medicine Ireland.
What is it?
Genomics Medicine Ireland (GMI) is an Irish life sciences company leading large-scale research studies across Ireland, looking at the human genome to examine the relationship between genetics, health and disease.
GMI is currently conducting genomic research studies in multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, brain tumours and rare disorders, partnering with hospitals including St. Vincent’s University Hospital, Beaumont Hospital, Cork University Hospital, Temple Street Children’s University Hospital, Tallaght Hospital and the Western Health and Social Care Trust in Northern Ireland. It is also undertaking the first genomic research study into health and fitness in conjunction with University College Dublin’s Institute for Sport and Health.
Who’s behind it?
GMI was founded by a group of Irish-based entrepreneurs and scientists, including Daniel Crowley (CEO), Dr Sean Ennis (Chief Scientific Officer), Dr Maurice Treacy (VP, Strategic Alliances) and Paul Thurk (board member).
They have offered their expertise over the years in health sciences, life sciences, technology, medical devices, research, biotechnology, bioinformatics, pharma and innovation.
How is it funded?
GMI secured Series A investment of $40 million (€36 million) from sovereign and international investors, including the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund, ARCH Venture Partners, Polaris Partners and GV (formerly Google Ventures).
The investment is being used to establish a world-class genomic research and development programme in Dublin and to create highly-skilled jobs focused on advanced genomic research and study.
Future plans?
The company plans to open Ireland’s first purpose-built genomic sequencing laboratory in Q1 2018. It is also expanding its existing research studies into other clinical centres of excellence across Ireland and will look to open new research studies into other life-threatening diseases.
