From 1st May 2019, the Director of Connecting Science, Julian Rayner, will be embarking on an exciting new challenge, as Director of the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research (CIMR), part of the University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine. While his research group will be moving from the Wellcome Sanger Institute to CIMR, he remains passionately committed to the mission of Connecting Science, and will remain Director of Connecting Science.

“Genomics is expanding at an astonishing rate. It is becoming part of almost all areas of biological research, and is directly affecting people’s lives and healthcare decisions”, said Dr Rayner. “The mission of Connecting Science, to enable everyone to explore the impact of genomics on research, health and society, is more pertinent now than ever. I couldn’t be prouder of what we have achieved over the past five years, but I’m even more excited about the opportunities ahead. It’s a privilege to continue to lead Connecting Science, and I’m grateful for the commitment and support of my colleagues and their talented teams in doing so.” Julian Rayner, Director, Connecting Science

Professor Mike Stratton, Director of the Wellcome Sanger Institute and Chief Executive of the Wellcome Genome Campus, said, “Julian has incredible vision, both scientifically where he identifies new malaria drug and vaccine targets, but also bringing that science to life engaging and inspiring others. Julian will bring his unique vim, enthusiasm and strong leadership to the Cambridge Institute of Medical Research and I’m thrilled that he will take over the Directorship, and remain strongly committed to the mission and the accomplished teams within Connecting Science.”