Three new centres for human genome research in Shanghai and Beijing offer about 100 positions for genome researchers and more genome initiatives are expected soon from the Chinese government (see Nature 394, 109; 1998).

Shanghai Human Genome Centre. Headed by Zhu Chen of Shanghai Second Medical University. Will have 35-40 researchers in a year's time, divided into four groups: expression profiles; genotyping of disease; single nucleotide polymorphisms; and functional genomics. Liver cancer, which is prevalent in Shanghai, is a particular focus. Start-up funds of 60 million yuan (US$7 million) are coming from local and central government.

Beijing Human Genome Centre. Headed by Boqin Qiang, vice-president of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Will have about 30 researchers in three divisions, devoted to sequencing; genetic resources; and bioinformatics. There will be a focus on cardiovascular disease and diseases of the nervous system. Start-up funds of nearly 100 million yuan ($12 million) are coming from central and local government and a state-owned real estate company.

Shanghai GeneCore BioTechnologies. A private sector initiative by three US companies — PE Applied Biosytems, Axys Pharmaceuticals, and Siniwest Holdings — which will have about 30 staff within a year. This joint venture in collaboration with local institutions is hunting for genes that cause liver cancer but expects to branch out into other areas of genomics. The three companies will make an initial investment of $10 million.