“I am particularly excited about projects that advance our understanding on the molecular pathophysiology of diseases” says expert group member professor Margit Mahlapuu, who also would like to support translational projects.

Five members have been assigned to the Data Driven Cell and Molecular Biology research area specific expert group, including Erik Lindahl, SciLifeLab researcher and DDLS Steering Group member, who will have the coordinating role. Other members of the group are Margit Mahlapuu, University of Gothenburg; Arne Elofsson, Stockholm University; Ola Engkvist, AstraZeneca; Eduardo Villablanca, Karolinska Institutet.

The members, all leading scientists in their field, will advise on matters within the scientific programs of the SciLifeLab and Wallenberg National Program for Data-Driven Life Science (DDLS) – a 12-year initiative aiming to train the next generation of life scientists, to create a strong computational and data science base, and to strengthen the competencies in today’s research society.

Expert group member Margit Mahlapuu, professor of molecular genetics at the University of Gothenburg, has more than 15 years of experience in drug research and development, at companies such as AstraZeneca and Arexis. She believes that the broad research area knowledge and experience from several stakeholders within the Swedish life science community, including not only academic environments but also the pharma and biotech sector, will be a valuable asset for planning and supporting the DDLS activities.

“The DDLS initiative is crucial for creating networks of internationally leading scientists in Sweden in different areas of research” says Margit Mahlapuu, who would like to support translational projects across different areas of research and foster collaborations with industry, research institutes and the health care sector.

“Based on my own background, I am particularly excited about projects that advance our understanding on the molecular pathophysiology of diseases in order to discover novel curative therapies, both in blockbuster indications but also in orphan and neglected diseases with high unmet medical need” says Margit Mahlapuu.

Want to learn more? Join the DDLS Research area conference, there will be keynotes, special lectures and opportunities to meet and discuss with prominent researchers within the four DDLS research areas, or read more about the DDLS program.