DeCode Genetics' former CEO, Kári Stefánsson, has resigned from his position.
Catching Up with deCODE Genetics: A New Chapter Begins
There's a tantalizing whiff of change in the air for one of Iceland's foremost scientific powerhouses - deCODE Genetics. After almost three decades at the helm, Kári Stefánsson, the man who birthed this pioneering entity, has bid adieu to his illustrious reign as CEO. This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for a trailblazer in human genomics.
Stepping up to the plate are the dynamic duo, Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdóttir and Dr. Patrick Sulem. These seasoned researchers will now share the reins of leadership in Iceland, guiding deCODE Genetics through its next epoch.
Decades of Genetic Pioneering
Kári Stefánsson kicked off deCODE Genetics' journey in 1996, turning it into a cornerstone in human genetics research. Under his watch, the company struck gold in 2012, when the US-based pharmaceutical giant Amgen swooped in and incorporated deCODE Genetics' groundbreaking work into their broader armory of medical innovations.
Seasoned New Guard
Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdóttir joined forces with deCODE Genetics in 2000. Her most recent position was Director of Genetic Research. This wasn't all she juggled — she's also a professor at the University of Iceland's Faculty of Medicine and served as Dean of the School of Health Sciences from 2022 to 2024. As she looks towards the future, Þorsteinsdóttir remains as inspired and passionate about genetics as she was on her very first day.
Dr. Patrick Sulem, who boasts a medical background in epidemiology and public health, joined deCODE Genetics in 2002. He led the company's Clinical Sequencing Project and has been instrumental in the research of the genetic roots behind numerous diseases. For Dr. Sulem, the power of genetics to fuel medical progression remains unwavering.
A Toast to a Scientific Pioneer
In a heartfelt tribute, Jay Bradner, Amgen's Executive Vice President of Research and Development, highlighted Dr. Stefánsson's pivotal role in establishing deCODE Genetics as a global titan in the field. The company remains dedicated to uplifting Iceland's position as a hub for world-class genetic research. With Dr. Þorsteinsdóttir and Dr. Sulem at the helm, the future of deCODE Genetics shimmers with promise.
- Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdóttir and Dr. Patrick Sulem, the new co-leaders of deCODE Genetics, have a combined experience in human genomics, medical-conditions, and technology that spans over two decades.
- As the new CEOs, Þorsteinsdóttir and Sulem aim to build on deCODE Genetics' established legacy in science and decode the genetic roots of various medical conditions to contribute to advancements in health-and-wellness.
- With the pharmaceutical industry's growing interest in genetic research, the genetic work carried out by deCODE Genetics could significantly impact the development of new pharmaceutical solutions for a range of diseases.
- Þorsteinsdóttir, having served as Dean of the School of Health Sciences and a professor at the University of Iceland's Faculty of Medicine, brings a comprehensive understanding of science, education, and medical-related domains to her role as CEO.
- Dr. Sulem's background in epidemiology and public health will be instrumental in guiding deCODE Genetics' strategies for addressing health-related genetic challenges and ensuring their research aligns with technology advancements in the field.
