Saying Goodbye to a Genetic Pioneer: Kári Stefaðsson Steps Down from deCODE Genetics
CEO Kari Stefansson resigns from DeCode Genetics leadership position
It's time to bid adieu to one of Iceland's most influential scientific minds, Kári Stefaðsson, who's parted ways with the company he founded almost three decades ago – deCODE Genetics. This announcement signals the end of an era for a pioneer in human genetics.
Stepping into Kári's shoes will be a duo of seasoned researchers – Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdóttir and Dr. Patrick Sulem. They'll be sharing leadership duties at deCODE Genetics, focusing on the company's operations in Iceland.
A Legacy Born Out of Vision
Seventy-six-year-old Kári established deCODE Genetics in 1996, turning it into a global frontrunner in human genetics. In 2012, the transition came when the US-based pharmaceutical company Amgen took over, integrating deCODE Genetics' groundbreaking research into their broader medical applications.
New Leadership, Fresh Beginnings
Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdóttir joined deCODE Genetics in 2000, most recently holding the position of Director of Genetic Research. 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.
" Contributing to research that put Iceland on the map in human genetics has been an honor," said Þorsteinsdóttir. "There's still so much left to explore in genetic wonders, and I feel as excited as ever."
Dr. Patrick Sulem, a physician with a background in epidemiology and public health, joined the company in 2002. He led the company's Clinical Sequencing Project and has played a significant role in research on genetic factors underlying numerous diseases.
"I truly believe in the power of genetics to advance medical science," Sulem noted. "Our focus going forward will be on turning scientific knowledge into practical benefits for patients."
A Pioneer's Impact
Jay Bradner, Amgen's Executive Vice President of Research and Development, acknowledged Kári's pivotal role in establishing deCODE Genetics as a global innovation leader.
"Dr. Stefaðsson has been instrumental in creating deCODE Genetics as a global hub for groundbreaking genetic research. We're grateful for his contributions and will continue to support Iceland's position as a center for world-class genetic research."
- Kári Stefaðsson, who founded deCODE Genetics in 1996, revolutionized human genetics, transforming the company into a global leader.
- The new dean of the School of Health Sciences at the University of Iceland, Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdóttir, expressed her excitement about continued genetic research, saying, "There's still so much left to explore in genetic wonders."
- With a focus on turning scientific knowledge into practical benefits for patients, Dr. Patrick Sulem, a seasoned researcher at deCODE Genetics, emphasized the potential of genetic research in advancing medical science.
- In a nod to Kári Stefaðsson's impact, Jay Bradner, Amgen's Executive Vice President of Research and Development, emphasized the company's commitment to maintaining Iceland's status as a world center for genetic research.
- As technology continues to evolve, pharmaceutical companies like Amgen will leverage genetic research from deCODE Genetics to develop innovative solutions for various medical conditions, contributing to the health and wellness sector.
