NEW YORK (GenomeWeb) – BGI and the Ethiopian Biotechnology Institute (EBTi) said yesterday that they have signed a memorandum of understanding on collaborating in genomics and biotechnology.
The document, signed by BGI Chief Development Officer Ning Li and EBTi Director General Kassahun Tesfaye, establishes a framework for a strategic partnership that aims to develop genomics infrastructure in Ethiopia.
Specifically, the partners plan to share information about joint R&D activities and establish research facilities and laboratory infrastructure.
Ethiopia harbors many endemic species and has rich biological diversity. "The EBTi is therefore excited to formalize this partnership with BGI in order to help facilitate critical genomics research in Ethiopia to unlock this potential," Tesfaye said in a statement.
The partnership will enable EBTi to address challenges to genomic research in the country, including ill-equipped facilities, poor accessibility to research centers, and lack of local expertise, Matt Poulter, BGI's business development director for Africa, said in a statement.
EBTi was established by the Ethiopian government in 2016 to conduct biotechnology R&D in the country.