[BCM] [GIS] Understanding Your Organisation

Understanding Your Organisation: Genome Institute of Singapore

The Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS) is a leading research institute dedicated to genomic science and its human health and disease applications.

As a key entity under the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), GIS is pivotal in advancing biomedical research, fostering collaborations, and translating genomic discoveries into real-world applications.

GIS must integrate robust business continuity management (BCM) practices aligned with ISO 22301 standards to ensure its continued success.

This chapter provides an in-depth understanding of GIS's organisational structure, key stakeholders, operational environment, and business continuity objectives, laying the foundation for a resilient research institution.

Organisational Overview

Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS) operates at the intersection of cutting-edge research, technological innovation, and translational medicine.

The institute is structured into specialised research programs, core technology platforms, and administrative functions that support its scientific mission. Key focus areas include:

Human Genomics – Understanding genetic variations and their impact on human health.
Cancer Genomics – Investigating genetic factors contributing to cancer development and progression.
Infectious Disease Genomics – Studying pathogen-host interactions and antimicrobial resistance.
Computational Genomics – Leveraging artificial intelligence and bioinformatics for genomic analysis.
Translational Research – Applying genomic discoveries to develop diagnostics and therapeutics.

Stakeholder Identification

A resilient GIS must account for the interests of multiple stakeholders, including:

Internal Stakeholders
- Researchers, scientists, and principal investigators
- Laboratory and technical staff
- IT and bioinformatics teams
- Administrative and management personnel
External Stakeholders
- Government agencies (A*STAR, MOH, NRF, etc.)
- Academic and industry collaborators
- Funding bodies and grant providers
- Ethical and regulatory authorities
- Patients and the wider community benefiting from genomic research

Operating Environment and Infrastructure

GIS operates within a highly specialized research environment, characterized by:

State-of-the-Art Laboratories – Equipped with next-generation sequencing (NGS), mass spectrometry, and other genomic technologies.
Data-Intensive Computing Infrastructure – High-performance computing clusters and cloud-based storage for genomic data analysis.
Biospecimen and Sample Storage – Biobanks and cryogenic facilities critical for long-term research projects.
Collaborative Research Networks – Engagement with international genomic consortia and biomedical research institutions.

Business Continuity Objectives

To ensure uninterrupted research activities and safeguard critical assets, GIS’s BCM framework must address:

Resilience of Core Research Operations – Ensuring continuity in laboratory experiments, sample processing, and data analysis.
Data Protection and Recovery – Implementing robust cybersecurity measures and backup systems for genomic databases.
Supply Chain Continuity – Securing critical reagents, consumables, and specialized equipment.
Emergency Preparedness and Crisis Management – Establishing protocols for pandemic response, power failures, and infrastructure disruptions.
Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management – Adhering to ethical guidelines, biosafety protocols, and funding agency requirements.

Risk Analysis and Review (RAR) and Business Impact Analysis (BIA)

As part of the BCM strategy, GIS must conduct a comprehensive risk assessment and business impact analysis to identify vulnerabilities such as:

Disruptions to Research Facilities – Equipment failures, contamination risks, or infrastructure damages.
Cybersecurity Threats – Data breaches, ransomware attacks, or loss of research data.
Supply Chain Disruptions – Delays in obtaining reagents, consumables, and high-value equipment.
Regulatory and Compliance Risks – Changes in biosafety regulations or ethical approvals affecting research projects.

Summing Up...

Understanding GIS’s organisational structure, stakeholders, and operational landscape is essential for implementing an effective business continuity strategy.

By aligning its BCM framework with ISO 22301 standards, GIS can enhance its resilience, protect critical research assets, and drive genomic innovation despite disruptions.

More Information About Business Continuity Management Courses

To learn more about the course and schedule, click the buttons below for the BCM-300 Business Continuity Management Implementer [B-3] course and the BCM-5000 Business Continuity Management Expert Implementer [B-5].