For Amgen—one of the world’s leading biotechnology companies—supporting the next generation of scientists ensures that human genomics research will continue to help patients struggling with serious illnesses. That’s why Amgen recently made a $1 million gift to the Keck Graduate Institute (KGI) to help establish the KGI Center for Training in Applied Genomics.
“Amgen is a world leader in human genetics, which plays an increasingly important role in the development of new medicines and holds promise for improving healthcare delivery,” said Robert A. Bradway, chairman and chief executive officer of Amgen. “We are pleased to support the KGI Center for Training in Applied Genomics as it builds the next generation of experts in genomics research.”
In the 40 years since Amgen has been in existence as a biotech pioneer, human genomics has become a cornerstone of medical science. The study of how genes impact health, and how certain DNA mutations contribute to a wide range of diseases, has led to life-changing treatments. Today’s scientists not only need to be well-versed in human genomics, but also trained to use artificial intelligence and data analytics to make sense of vast amount of genomic data.
The KGI Center for Training in Applied Genomics will provide a full-spectrum educational resource designed to develop emerging scientists into tomorrow's leaders, while also giving today’s professionals the tools they need to stay on the cutting-edge of their field.
In 2016, Amgen gave $1.5 million to KGI to create two genetics-focused master's degrees, and in March 2019, Amgen CEO Bob Bradway sat down with KGI president Sheldon Schuster for the school’s podcast Innovation in Applied Life Sciences & Healthcare (download or listen here).