NEW YORK (GenomeWeb News) — The X Prize Foundation today announced its $10 million Archon X Prize for Genomics, which will go to the first team to create a technology that can map 100 human genomes in 10 days.
According to the Foundation, the prize “is designed to usher in a new era of personalized preventative medicine.”
Three teams are currently enrolled in the competition: VisiGen Biotechnologies, led by Susan Hardin; 454 Life Sciences, led by CEO Christopher McLeod; and a group comprising the Westheimer Institute for Science and Technology, the Foundation for Applied Molecular Evolution, and Firebird Biomolecular Sciences. This group will be led by Steve Benner.
“Many other companies have inquired and more teams are expected to register soon,” the X Prize Fundation said.
The prize was announced at a press conference today at the National Press Club in Washington, DC. On hand were Craig Venter; Francis Collins; Anousheh Ansari, the first female private space explorer and co-founder and chairman of Prodea Systems; Sharon Terry, president and CEO of the Genetic Alliance; Billy Tauzin, president and CEO of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturing Association; and Stewart Blusson, president of Archon Minerals, which became the title sponsor of the prize after a “generous multi-million dollar” donation by Blusson.