The Salmonid Genomic Sequencing Initiative: cGRASP (Consortium for Genomics Research on All Salmonids Programme)

The project "Consortium for Genomics Research on All Salmonids Programme" (cGRASP) was launched at an international workshop hosted by the Norwegian University of Life Sciences October 25-26, 2005. The ultimate aim of the project is to make a reference wh ole genome sequence of Atlantic salmon (6-8x coverage) and a low-survey sequence (1-2x) of rainbow trout. The project involves several labs in Canada, USA, France, Great Britain and Norway. A large-scale international project like this needs a well orches trated running-in phase addressing the formalization of rules for consortium participation and responsibilities, identification of available scientific and logistic resources, recognition of funding needs and possibilities, establishment of professional w eb-sites, and development of specific work breakdown structures reflecting funding realities, scientific bandwidth and competence. The Research Council of Norway recently funded pre-sequencing phase activities with 150'NOK (BILAT funds). This funding was primarily intended to cover travel expenses associated with the development of a white paper, the first cGRASP webpage, and consortium formalization discussions. The white paper is now approaching publication (enclosed) and the other activities are also w ell under way. However, it has become evident that we also need dedicated project management resources to secure a professional handling of the running-in-phase activity portfolio in order to avoid delays and unnecessary complications. Availability of thi s resource is highly critical for the smooth development of the whole project. We ask here for funding of 8 months salary for a project manager and some additional travel money. The Norwegian University of Life Sciences is willing to match this funding wi th 4 months salary. Project management of the early phase will ensure that Norway maintain its profiled position in the whole genome sequencing of salmonids.