Biology. Genopole, building and coordinating a research cluster in genomics, post-genomics and related sciences

At the time of its launch in 1998, Genopole® had a three-fold mission:

• Develop a center of excellence in genomics and post-genomics research (with a special focus on gene therapy), in close collaboration with the University of Evry-Val-d’Essonne (UEVE).
• Foster the creation and development of biotech companies in the Paris Ile-de-France region by providing appropriate support.
• Create a biopark in Evry-Corbeil from the ground up, interfaced with academic research and shared-access technology platforms and services.

In collaboration with France’s national research institutes and the Paris Ile-de-France region’s universities, Genopole® hosts and equips academic research units specializing in genetics, genomics and related sciences. As of December 31, 2007, the Evry-Corbeil biopark hosted 22 academic research laboratories run by the CNRS, INSERM, CEA and INRA nation research institutes and the universities of Evry-Val d’Essonne, Paris-VII and Versailles-Saint-Quentin.

• Reinforcing a center of excellence in life science teaching and training

In collaboration with the University of Evry-Val d’Essonne, Genopole® helps to set up high-level teaching programs (notably in genomics, gene therapy and bioinformatics), reinforce joint national institute/university research groups and establish links with other French universities. Founded in July 1991, the University of Evry-Val d’Essonne (UEVE) now offers around 160 courses (of which over 80 are vocational in nature) to a total of 10,000 students. Since the start of the 2005 academic year, the UEVE has been operating the Bachelor–Master–Doctorate degree system.

• Promoting the growth of the biotech industry

By providing custom financial and technical project support, Genopole® offers entrepreneurs an opportunity to move onto a thriving life science research and business park. In addition, Genopole®’s independent Expert Committee helps life science entrepreneurs to evaluate and refine their business plans.
Company founders can also apply for funding to the Genopole 1er Jour seed fund (renamed G1J Ile-de-France in 2007). In the space of 10 years, Genopole® has hosted or fostered the creation, establishment or development of some 64 biotech companies (net total as of December 31, 2007).

© Crédits Photos : Génopole

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