Inspirational Relationship with The Jackson Laboratory 

By David Evans Shaw

I joined the board of The Jackson Laboratory more than 35 years ago, in 1989, and served as board chair at a time of exponential growth in the late 1990s.  During my tenure, the JAX team has grown from ~150 people to nearly 3000, and revenues have grown roughly 3000%, more than 10% CAGR.  It has been an honor to contribute to the growth of this remarkable genetics research institute.  At a small gathering this week in New York City, we celebrated continued inspirational developments to benefit society through scientific research and education. 

This year marks the 8^th anniversary of the Maine Cancer Genomics Initiative (MCGI), a powerful alliance of all Maine oncology practices aimed at reducing disparities to access advanced technology, including precision medicine, for cancer care.    MCGI has become a model of excellence in cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment nationally, and beyond.  

This year also marks the 100^th anniversary of the JAX Summer Student Program. 

This highly selective and free 10-week program helps college and high school participants experience the excitement and fulfillment of biomedical research. Summer students conduct hands on science, and learn about scientific processes and scientific careers.  Many go on to important careers in science including David Baltimore, president emeritus of the California Institute of Technology, and Rockefeller University.  He participated in the summer program as a high school student and went on to win a Nobel Prize 20 years later. 

Congratulations to the JAX team for outstanding contributions to human health and wellbeing through pioneering genetics research, education and resources.