Grant: Team Grant: Pan-Canadian Human Genome Library

Canada is in an ideal position to capitalize on the opportunities afforded by big genomic data - we boast world-leading expertise in genomics and in the development of data sharing policies and tools. However, we lack a national strategy to capture, store and access Canadian data in an equitable, secure and sustainable manner. At the same time, the size and complexity of human genomics datasets and their associated clinical data are growing rapidly. The Pan-Canadian Genome Library (PCGL) will establish the strategy for Canada's management and sharing of human genomic data. The PCGL will build upon Canadian-made foundational components and datasets, and utilize international standards to unify Canada's human genome sequencing efforts and set out a federated data management system that respects limitations on the jurisdictional movement of human genetic data. To respectfully support research relying on Indigenous data, we will also work with the Silent Genome Project and others to develop an Indigenous Genetics Circle. The PCGL will lay the groundwork for large-scale genomic data sharing and storage and raise the international visibility of Canadian research as well as lead to more effective and cost-effective healthcare delivery for all members of Canadian society.