About
1KSA Decodes South Africa's Biodiversity
Imagine a treasure trove of genetic information, holding the key to understanding the incredible diversity of life in South Africa. That's the vision behind 1KSA, or "1000 Genomes South Africa," an ambitious initiative to sequence the genomes of 1,000 unique animals, plants, and fungi found within the country's borders.
By sequencing 1000 genomes, 1KSA is building an invaluable resource for research, conservation, and cultural understanding of indigenous species. This isn't just about collecting data; it's about empowering local researchers and students. Through 1KSA, they gain access to cutting-edge facilities and training opportunities, fostering a new generation of scientific leaders in South Africa.
Values:
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To empower 1KSA partner labs in pioneering groundbreaking biodiversity genome sequencing initiatives.
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To ignite South Africa's passion for biodiversity genome sequencing, supporting researchers and students with comprehensive training to blaze new trails.
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To unlock 1000 genomes within three years, achieving a minimum of 20X coverage through cutting-edge Oxford Nanopore long-read technology, unveiling nature's marvels.
Goals:
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Access to cutting-edge facilities where South African researchers will gain valuable experience working with state-of-the-art genomics technologies.
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The project invests in the next generation of scientists, equipping them with the skills needed to address future challenges.
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By unlocking the secrets hidden within South Africa's genes, 1KSA promises a brighter future for its unique biodiversity, research community, and cultural heritage
1KSA's impact extends far beyond research. The initiative fosters local scientific expertise by providing:
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Access to cutting-edge facilities where South African researchers will gain valuable experience working with state-of-the-art genomics technologies.
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The project invests in the next generation of scientists, equipping them with the skills needed to address future challenges.
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By unlocking the secrets hidden within South Africa's genes, 1KSA promises a brighter future for its unique biodiversity, research community, and cultural heritage.
By creating a comprehensive genomic resource, 1KSA empowers researchers to:
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Gain deeper insights into the evolution, adaptation, and unique characteristics of South Africa's diverse flora and fauna.
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Inform conservation efforts by identifying species at risk and developing targeted strategies to protect them, ensuring their survival for future generations.
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Celebrate cultural heritage by connecting communities to the natural world through the exploration of the genetic stories woven into the fabric of South African life.
Labs behind 1KSA
Supporters
1KSA consortium members
The people listed below are affiliated to the six labs contributing to 1KSA sequencing and are part of the 1KSA consortium (past and present lab members are listed) (Note - sample contributors are not listed in the consortium)
DIPLOMICS (DIstributed PLatform in OMICS)
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Anja le Grange
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Jeanne Korsman
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Morwasehla Modjadji
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Mhlekazi Molatoli
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Christina Meiring
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Patricia Swart
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Tim Newman
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Shane Murray
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Setshaba Taukobong
NRF-SAIAB Aquatics Genomics Research Platform
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Gwynneth Matcher
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Jody Olivier
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Etienne de Villiers
University of the Western Cape Institute of Microbial Biotechnology and Metagenomics
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Lonnie van Zyl
University of Pretoria Genomics Laboratory
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Nicky Olivier
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Renate Zipfel
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Candice de Waal
CenGen
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Helmien Barkhuizen-Roode
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Larysha Rothman
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Elsabet Wessels
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Wilku B. Meyer
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Renée Prins
SAMRC Genomics Platform
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Victoria Cole
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Amsha Viraragavan
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Nadia Carstens
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Craig Kinnear