Genomics is one of the most rapidly advancing fields in science, driving innovation across health, biotechnology, environmental research and biodiversity. Despite its strategic importance, Europe currently lacks a dedicated, integrated research infrastructure capable of supporting cutting-edge genomic science at scale. EASIGEN-DS (European Advanced Scientific Infrastructure in Genomics—Design Study) is a Horizon Europe-funded project aimed at laying the foundations for a pan-European infrastructure in genomics. The initiative aligns with the European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures (ESFRI) and builds on the legacy of successful EU-funded genomics projects.
The project aims to establish a shared vision among key actors, identify gaps and opportunities across the existing landscape, and produce the necessary design elements to advance to the next stage of infrastructure development. It also promotes ethical standards and open science practices, including the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) data principles.
The project draws on extensive stakeholder consultation, landscape analysis and structured collaboration among research facilities, scientific networks, and policy institutions. Activities are organised around key thematic areas, including user needs, technical architecture, legal governance, funding models and socio-economic impact. Findings are being consolidated into a series of design documents to guide the infrastructure’s future implementation.
As a partner in the consortium, CSIL leads the work on performance monitoring, cost modelling and impact assessment. This includes defining key performance indicators to evaluate long-term research performance, conducting an ex-ante socio-economic impact assessment, and developing a detailed Cost Book to estimate and plan for the infrastructure’s lifecycle costs. CSIL also contributes to the analysis of sustainable funding options and supports strategic decision-making processes aligned with ESFRI guidelines. Its role ensures that economic, policy and operational dimensions are fully integrated into the infrastructure design.
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