A Changing of Guard at deCODE Genetics
CEO of DeCode Genetics, Kári Stefánsson, resigns from his position.
After nearly three decades at the helm, Kári Stefánsson, founding father and long-term CEO of deCODE Genetics, has officially passed the torch. This announcement marks the end of an epoch for one of Iceland's most influential scientific trailblazers.
Taking charge now are Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdóttir and Dr. Patrick Sulem, both seasoned researchers in the Icelandic Genetics community. Working together, they will steer deCODE's operations in Iceland forward.
A Legacy of Genetic Discoveries
At 76, Kári Stefánsson established deCODE Genetics in 1996. His leadership transformed the company into a global vanguard in human genetics. In 2012, the U.S.-based pharmaceutical giant Amgen acquired deCODE Genetics, incorporating its groundbreaking research into vast medical applications.
New Leadership, Continued Inspiration
Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdóttir officially joined deCODE Genetics in 2000 and most recently served as its Director of Genetic Research. She is also a professor at the University of Iceland's Faculty of Medicine and previously led the School of Health Sciences as Dean from 2022 to 2024.
Thorsteinsdóttir, a world-renowned geneticist, expressed her excitement about continuing to contribute to research that has placed Iceland on the world map of human genetics. "We still have a long way to go in understanding the mysteries of genetics," she said. "Today, I feel just as inspired as I did on my very first day."
With a background in epidemiology and public health, Dr. Patrick Sulem has been with deCODE since 2002. Previously he led the Clinical Sequencing Project, and throughout his tenure, he has made significant strides in researching genetic factors underlying various diseases.
"I am convinced of the transformative power of genetics in medical science," Sulem stated. "Our focus remains on translating scientific knowledge into tangible benefits for patients."
Honoring a Scientific Pioneer
Jay Bradner, Amgen’s Executive Vice President of Research and Development, recognized Stefánsson's pivotal role in cementing deCODE as a global leader in the field.
"Dr. Stefánsson has played a crucial part in establishing deCODE Genetics as a luminary in the world of human genetics," Bradner said. "We express gratitude for his countless contributions and remain devoted to preserving Iceland's status as a hub for top-tier genetic research."
A Depth of Experience at deCODE
Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdóttir is a recognized authority on human genetics, having made substantial contributions to groundbreaking discoveries at deCODE. Among her distinctions, she has been a member of the Icelandic Centre for Research (Rannís) and the Science and Technology Policy Council. She has long advocated for maintaining the highest standards of scientific excellence and supporting the next generation of Icelandic scientists[1].
Dr. Patrick Sulem specializes in epidemiology and public health, and his tenure at deCODE has been marked by numerous breakthroughs in disease research across a broad spectrum. Both researchers boast decades of experience in population genetics and large-scale genetic studies, which have solidified deCODE Genetics’ standing as a global leader in the field[1][2][3].
- Under the new leadership, Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdóttir and Dr. Patrick Sulem will leverage their extensive experience in Iceland's Genetics community to guide deCODE Genetics' operations, continuing its legacy in science and medical-conditions research.
- Genetic discovery and technology advancement have placed Iceland on the world map, largely due to deCODE Genetics' global vanguard status in human genetics, a position established by Kári Stefánsson.
- In the pharmaceutical realm, deCODE Genetics' groundbreaking research, under Stefánsson's leadership, was later incorporated into vast medical applications by US-based Amgen.
- As a seasoned researcher, Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdóttir, having worked at deCODE since 2000, is excited to continue decoding the mysteries of genetics and contribute to top-tier genetic research.
- With a background in epidemiology and public health, Dr. Patrick Sulem, who has been with deCODE since 2002, remains focused on decoding genetic factors underlying various diseases and translating scientific knowledge into health-and-wellness benefits for patients.
