GIGA is a unique organizational structure in Belgium which is located within the University of Liege. This "cluster" includes an academic research center of excellence, seven technological platforms, a technology transfer office, "an incubator" within business facilities for biotech companies, and a center for continuous training. For all of these, genoproteomics is the main line in the scientific approach. Genoproteomics comprises genomics, which studies the set of genes that encode the information needed for organism development and life and proteomics, which studies the expression, the regulation and interactions of proteins within that organism. The genome encloses the information, but the proteins are responsible for interacting with the outside world and for the organism functioning properly.

• state-of-the-art academic research

• a close collaboration between research and business

• multidisciplinary projects

• growing interactions with the clinicians of the CHU (where the GIGA is located)

While offering qualified staff, scientific and technological know-how and a strong spirit of innovation, the GIGA project aims to make Liege and its region a magnet for biotechnology research and development .

Innovative concept

The concept aims at promoting synergy.

The floors, which are dedicated to research,  have been designed similarly to the "open laboratory" pattern of the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics of Dresden. This design enhances multidisciplinarity within research.

Shared rooms , equipment and platforms are located in the central block. The research laboratories surround this block and make access to material effortless. As  for the offices, they are designed as open-plan offices in order to continue promoting interaction.

The pooling of services (purchase, washing plants..) makes it possible to make substantial economies and to rationally manage needs and financial resources.