Gene Sequencing: Staking a Position in an Expanding Industry

Posted: 5 Feb 2012

See all articles by Richard G. Hamermesh

Richard G. Hamermesh

affiliation not provided to SSRN

Phillip Andrews

affiliation not provided to SSRN

Mara G. Aspinall

Harvard University - Harvard Medical School

Date Written: October 17, 2011

Abstract

Towards the end of 2010, companies in the gene sequencing industry were pushing aggressive R&D programs to develop technologies and products in the race to sequence the entire human genome at a cost of $1,000. It remained to be seen when the "$1,000 genome" would arrive, and despite all of the buzz surrounding the industry, it was still unclear to investors who the industry winners would be. This case focuses on the emergence of third-generation sequencing and the four segments in the industry: hardware, consumables, services, and interpretation. The case presents the history of the industry, the evolution of sequencing technology, and the business models of players in each segment.

Learning Objective: To foster a discussion about the business dynamics and potential winning plays in a rapidly growing and evolving industry.

Suggested Citation

Hamermesh, Richard G. and Andrews, Phillip and Aspinall, Mara G., Gene Sequencing: Staking a Position in an Expanding Industry (October 17, 2011). Harvard Business School Strategy Unit Case No. 812-004, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1998169

Richard G. Hamermesh (Contact Author)

affiliation not provided to SSRN ( email )

Phillip Andrews

affiliation not provided to SSRN ( email )

Mara G. Aspinall

Harvard University - Harvard Medical School ( email )

25 Shattuck St
Boston, MA 02115
United States

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