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The Translational Genomics Research Institute Essay

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Introduction:
The Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) is a not-for-profit organization specializing in the research of various types of cancer and rare diseases as well as new drug discovery for many of these diseases. It has been a leader in the cancer genomics research field over the last several years. TGen has a number of laboratories, led by individual research scientists, where research is carried out. As a not-for-profit organization, TGen is funded by donations and research grants. By the nature of its work, the culture at TGen has been mostly adhocracy.
Problem Definition:
Research, as it typically occurs at TGen, is carried out by a lead researcher (the subject matter expert) along with a team of supporting staff (research assistants, laboratory and administrative staff). The laboratories typically function as closed systems. Because of the novel nature of the research often carried out by TGen, very few subject matter experts are available. Also, with very high egos at stake, researchers are often very protective of their research data and findings. According to the Harvard Business Review, “the higher the educational level of the team members is, the more challenging collaboration appears to be for them” (Gratton and Erickson, 2007). TGen faces this exact scenario as a greater percentage of all research staff hold one or more advanced degrees with a majority holding PhDs. This has resulted in very minimal collaboration between different laboratories

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