University of Latvia (UL), together with the National Institute of Research and Innovation, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga East Clinical University Hospital, Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital and Children’s Clinical University Hospital, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Illumina, a global leader in genomics. The agreement reflects a shared intention to advance genomics and precision medicine in Latvia.
The Memorandum was signed on September 25th in the United States during the working visit of Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs, taking place from 24 to 27 September. The delegation of biomedical sector professionals accompanying the President includes Associate Professor Dr biol. Vita Rovīte, Vice-Dean for Research at the University of Latvia’s Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences.
Meeting with Jacob Thaysen, CEO of Illumina, a global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, the President of Latvia Edgars Rinkēvičs discussed opportunities to expand the existing cooperation, especially in accelerating genomics innovation and scaling precision medicine across Latvia. During the meeting, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Illumina and several biomedical sector institutions in Latvia – the National Institute for Research and Innovations, Riga East University Hospital, Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital, Children's Clinical University Hospital, Rīga Stradiņš University and the University of Latvia. All share a commitment to advancing genomics, and the MoU establishes a framework to advance precision medicine and integrate advanced biomedical technologies to help improve patient outcomes.
The Memorandum marks an important step towards connecting genomic research, national data and biobanking infrastructure with clinical practice. In the longer term, this collaboration could support earlier diagnosis, more personalised approaches to treatment and prevention, and strengthen the position of the University of Latvia and Latvia in the international field of genomics and precision medicine.
