Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS)

The Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS) is the national flagship programme for the genomic sciences in Singapore. It was established in June 2000, and initially known as the Singapore Genomics Programme. In March 2001, Professor Edison T. Liu, previously the Director of the Division of Clinical Sciences, National Cancer Institute (USA), was appointed its first executive director.

In December 2011, Professor Ng Huck Hui took over the reins as GIS’ new Acting Executive Director. Prof Ng is one of Singapore’s most prominent scientists in stem cell research. He has won numerous prestigious awards including The Medal of Commendation (2010) for having inspired and mentored many young scientists to excel; The Chen New Investigator Award (2010) in recognition of significant contributions to his field of expertise, the National Science Award (2007) which is awarded to outstanding scientists whose research has led to the discovery of new knowledge, and the Young Scientist Award (2004) for exemplary work on gene regulation. Prof Ng was subsequently appointed GIS’ second Executive Director in October 2012.