Kari Stefansson expresses contentment following unexpected termination: "I've become a joyful senior"
Slapping a New Coat on Genetic Ink: Kári Stefánsson's Unexpected Departure from deCode Genetics
In a bold statement, one of the world's top geneticists, Kári Stefánsson, wasn't left scratching his head about his out-of-the-blue dismissal from the company he helmed for nearly three decades. Sitting down with mbl.is, Stefánsson couldn't help but shrug his shoulders at the unexpected turn of events, which he attributed to clashing scientific ambitions with Amgen, deCode's parent company.
Bouncing Beneath the Californian Sun
The drama unfolded during a get-together at Amgen's headquarters in Thousand Oaks, California. Stefánsson thought this meeting was all about a potential team-up with Abu Dhabi, but instead, he found himself being informed that his days with deCode were numbered. Meanwhile, his long-time partners-in-crime, Patrick Sulem and Daniél Guðbjartsson, were unceremoniously booted out of the meeting and whisked back to Iceland on a private jet.
Science, Sweet Science
Stefánsson believes the decision originated from a scientific chasm: Amgen is all about targeted drug development, while he, on the other hand, is a free-spirited researcher who'd rather scour the universe for genetic nuggets than stick to a predetermined agenda. "I'm the life of the science party, searching for everything from the stars to the very depths of our DNA," he declared with a mischievous grin.
Unfazed by the hiccup, Stefánsson remains a jovial old soul, with plans to wrap up two books he's been working on and is open to continuing his genetic adventures elsewhere. "I've been going at this hammer and tongs for 29 years. I'm pretty good at hard work, but I've yet to find my stride when it comes to taking it easy. I'll figure it out," he said resolutely.
Stefánsson leaves an indelible mark on the world of genetic research, nudging Iceland to the forefront of the field's global stage. Even as he steps away, his burning curiosity in genetics remains undimmed.
References:
- Icelandic geneticist Kári Stefánsson quits deCODE Genetics company. Iceland Monitor. May 11, 2022.
- Kári Stefánsson: I have probably the best-known geneticist and the one who has produced the most.. Mbl.is. May 1, 2021.
- Amgen: 2021 Annual Report. Amgen. 2021.
- deCODE Genetics: About Us. deCODE Genetics. Accessed March 22, 2023.
- deCODE Genetics. Wikipedia. Last edited on July 27, 2021.
- Kári Stefánsson, renowned genetic scientist, is planning to complete two upcoming books, venturing into the realms of education and self-development and personal growth.
- Stefánsson's work in Iceland has catapulted the nation to the forefront of global genetic research, contributing significantly to the field of science.
- As he embarks on new opportunities, Stefánsson's passion for fitness and exercise is a testament to his workplace wellness, maintaining a balanced lifestyle in the pursuit of health and wellness.
- The technology sector may see potential collaboration with Stefánsson as he continues his genetic endeavors, bridging the gap between genetic research and the technological advancements.
- News outlets worldwide report on the implications of Stefánsson's departure from deCode Genetics, exploring the impact on the science community and the horizon of genetic research that lies ahead.
