Building a life-science infrastructure
The 'European life-science infrastructure for biological information' (ELIXIR) project demonstrated an urgent need for a sustainable pan-European infrastructure for bioinformatics. Bioinformatics refers to the managing of biological data collections and ensuring that they are accessible. During the course of the project the team defined the scope of the infrastructure and its benefits. It also outlined an appropriate governance and legal structure, as well as a long-term funding structure to ensure its sustainability. The project received input from relevant stakeholders and defined the interdisciplinary links that need to be forged between the biological sciences and other related disciplines. Originally, the infrastructure was viewed as an upgrade to the core European bioinformatics infrastructure located at the European Bioinformatics Institute (EBI). However, it soon became clear that an infrastructure organised around a central hub and connected to Member States was needed. This model would enhance existing collective data capacity to meet the rising demand and expand access across the continent. The upgraded infrastructure would also have greater computer capacity. Another change in the field has been an increase in the number of scientists and other professionals who have a need for data. As a result, more training on how to use online bioinformatics services will be needed. Training should include how to take advantage of the data and use a wide range of analytical software tools. The new hub building is under construction, and the governance structure is in place. The hope is that this new infrastructure will provide the backbone for new discoveries, spur economic development and innovation, and generate opportunities to increase Europe's knowledge-based industry and competitiveness. Furthermore, by funding the initiative with public monies, open access will be maintained. Importantly, Europeans will also be speaking with a single voice, and this unity will strengthen Europe's influence in global discussions.
Keywords
Gene sequencing, biological data, pan-European infrastructure, bioinformatics, data collections, open access
