The Human Genome Project
The Human Genome Project (HGP) is one of the greatest scientific feats in history. The project was a voyage of biological discovery led by an international group of researchers looking to comprehensively study all of the DNA (known as a genome) of a select set of organisms. Launched in October 1990 and completed in April 2003, the Human Genome Project’s signature accomplishment – generating the first sequence of the human genome – provided fundamental information about the human blueprint, which has since accelerated the study of human biology and improved the practice of medicine.
Learn more about the Human Genome Project below.
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A virtual exhibit exploring the 1990 letter writing campaign to oppose the HGP.
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A virtual discussion with the leaders of the five genome-sequencing centers that provides the untold story on how they got the HGP across the finish line in 2003.
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A fact sheet detailing how the project began and how it shaped the future of research and technology.
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An interactive timeline listing key moments from the history of the project.
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A downloadable poster containing major scientific landmarks before and throughout the project.
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Prominent scientists involved in the project reflect on the lessons learned.
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Commentary in the journal Nature written by NHGRI leaders discussing the legacies of the project.
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Lecture-oriented slides telling the story of the project by a front-line participant.
Last updated: November 18, 2024