Decode Genetics' CEO, Kári Stefánsson, announces his departure from the position.
The Departure of a Genetics Pioneer
Kári Stefánsson, the visionary founder and former CEO of Icelandic Genetics, has bid adieu to the helm of his historic company. This marks the end of an influential era for one of Iceland's most esteemed scientific figures.
Stepping up to lead the company are Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdóttir and Dr. Patrick Sulem, both esteemed researchers within the realm of Icelandic Genetics. The duo will share responsibilities for guiding the company's operations within Iceland.
A Legacy of Innovation
At 76, Kári Stefánsson established Icelandic Genetics in 1996. Under his guidance, the company emerged as a global powerhouse in the field of human genetics. In 2012, U.S.-based pharmaceutical giant Amgen acquired DeCode Genetics, incorporating their groundbreaking research into a broader medical context.
New Leaders on the Horizon
Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdóttir, a respected global geneticist, joined Icelandic Genetics in 2000 and served most recently as the company's Director of Genetic Research. She holds the position of professor at the University of Iceland's Faculty of Medicine and has served as Dean of the School of Health Sciences from 2022 to 2024.
"It has been an honor to contribute to research that catapulted Iceland onto the global stage of human genetics," said Þorsteinsdóttir. "I remain as inspired today as I was on my first day, for the wonders of genetics are far from fully understood."
Dr. Patrick Sulem, a physician specializing in epidemiology and public health, joined the company in 2002. In his tenure, he led the company's Clinical Sequencing Project and played a crucial role in research on genetic factors that contribute to the onset of numerous diseases.
"I am a firm believer in the transformative power of genetics to revolutionize medical science," Sulem said. "Our mission will continue to revolve around translating scientific knowledge into real-world benefits for patients."
Honoring a Scientific Trailblazer
Jay Bradner, Amgen's Executive Vice President of Research and Development, applauded the substantial impact of Kári Stefánsson's work.
"Kári Stefánsson has played a critical role in positioning Icelandic Genetics as a vanguard in the field. We are indebted to his contributions and promise to persist in supporting Iceland's position as a hub for world-class genetic research."
Dr. Unnur Þorsteinsdocttir and Dr. Patrick Sulem, the new leaders at Icelandic Genetics, will focus on using science and technology to advance medical-conditions research, contributing to health-and-wellness breakthroughs. Their mission is to translate the scientific knowledge they gain into real-world benefits for patients, building on the foundation laid by genetics pioneer Kari Stefansson.
