GUARDIANS

GUARDIANS (human Genomics Uplift for Australia through Research Data Infrastructure At National Scale) is accelerating human genomics and related omics research in Australia through the development of world-class digital infrastructure.

The task

The GUARDIANS mission is to empower Australian researchers to easily and securely discover, access, analyse and use human genomics data across national infrastructure, using the latest tools and resources.

Key Deliverables:

  • Data Commons: Supporting flagship collections from key areas of unmet need.

  • National Genome Repository: Laying the groundwork for a centralised, secure repository for human genomic data.

  • Access and Security: Implementing a shared identity and access management system to enhance security and simplify access for researchers.

  • Innovation Pilots: Leading edge pilots to ensure the infrastructure evolves with emerging genomic data-sharing trends.

  • Expertise and Training: Providing technical leadership, support, and training to ensure the infrastructure's long-term success and sustainability.

The Opportunity

Australia's human genomics research datasets present unparalleled opportunities to enhance our understanding of health, disease mechanisms, and precision medicine. As data grows exponentially, so too does the complexity of sharing and collaboration, creating a pressing national challenge. 

Human genomics research will be greatly uplifted by addressing this complexity in the current landscape for sharing human omics data. Improving seamless access depends on the provision of standardised interfaces, harmonised data formats, ethical and documented access rules, and interoperable institutional policies and technologies. Provision of these vital components will enable researchers to access, analyse and use critical data from multiple research datasets, unlocking opportunities for discovery. 

Our Approach

GUARDIANS is a collaborative effort led by Australian BioCommons in partnership with major genomics research and infrastructure organisations across Australia. Our approach is grounded in global best practices, aligning with GA4GH standards while addressing Australia’s unique ethical, legal, and social contexts.

Inspired by the NCRIS Roadmap, NAGIM Implementation Recommendations, and lessons from previous projects like the Human Genomes Platform Project, we are focused on iterative implementation to deliver tangible value for stakeholders and creating sustainable, production-ready systems.

The Investment

The GUARDIANS program, funded by the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) through Bioplatforms Australia, is in its contracting phase with projects anticipated to commence in late 2024. The program runs from mid-2023 through 2027, though these timelines are subject to change as the initiative evolves and adapts to ongoing developments.

GUARDIANS is highly collaborative in nature and is being delivered through a partnership of major Australian human genomics research and infrastructure organisations, including:

 

GUARDIANS is being delivering in partnership with: