Broad Institute
The Broad Institute is a research organization known for its significant contributions to genomics and biomedicine, including rapid COVID-19 testing and advancements in cancer research.
Celebrating 20th Anniversary
In 2024, the Broad Institute will mark its 20th anniversary. This milestone reflects two decades of substantial contributions to the field of genomics and biomedical research. Since its inception, the institute has been at the forefront of scientific innovation, collaborating with numerous global partners to advance the understanding of biological systems and disease treatment.
Broad Discovery Center
The Broad Institute hosts the Broad Discovery Center, a public educational space dedicated to showcasing ongoing research efforts. The center is free to the public and provides an interactive platform for visitors to engage with the latest scientific discoveries. This initiative aims to foster greater public understanding and appreciation of scientific research.
Genomics Platform
The Broad Institute's Genomics Platform is a key component of its research infrastructure. This state-of-the-art facility is capable of sequencing a whole human genome every four minutes, highlighting its advanced capabilities in high-throughput genomic sequencing. Additionally, the platform emphasizes sustainability, with more than 80 percent of its waste being recycled or incinerated for electricity generation.
COVID-19 Testing Efforts
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Broad Institute demonstrated remarkable adaptability by converting a clinical genetics processing lab into a COVID-19 testing facility in under two weeks in March 2020. By the end of 2022, the institute had processed over 37 million COVID-19 tests. This rapid response played a critical role in addressing the public health crisis.
Cancer Dependency Map
As part of its comprehensive cancer research initiatives, the Broad Institute has screened over 1,275 cancer cell lines. This effort is part of the Cancer Dependency Map project, which aims to identify vulnerabilities in cancer cells that can be targeted for therapeutic development. The project is a valuable resource for the global research community in pursuing new cancer treatments.
Global Partnerships for CRISPR Reagents
The Broad Institute collaborates with more than 3,200 institutions across 76 countries to share CRISPR genome-editing reagents. This extensive network of partnerships facilitates the global dissemination of CRISPR technology, enabling a wide array of research projects aimed at understanding and manipulating genetic material for scientific and therapeutic purposes.
Summer Research Programs
The Broad Institute hosts annual summer research programs designed for high school and undergraduate students. These programs provide hands-on research experiences and exposure to cutting-edge scientific projects. They aim to inspire and train the next generation of scientists by offering valuable educational and practical opportunities in the field of biomedical research.