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About GDI

This page provides an overview of the Genomic Data Infrastructure (GDI) and its components.

What is GDI?​

The Genomic Data Infrastructure (GDI) is Europe's federated network for genomic data sharing, enabling secure access to over one million genome sequences from across European countries.

The 1+ Million Genomes Initiative: GDI is the technical implementation of the European Union's 1+ Million Genomes Initiative, launched in 2018 when EU member states signed a declaration to create the world's largest genomic dataset for research and healthcare.

Key objectives of the 1+ Million Genomes Initiative include:

  • Advance personalised medicine: Enable precision treatments based on genetic profiles
  • Accelerate rare disease research: Provide researchers with unprecedented access to genomic data
  • Support population health: Understand genetic variations across European populations
  • Maintain data sovereignty: Keep genomic data under national control while enabling cross-border research

How it works​

GDI operates through two main portals that work together to create a seamless data sharing ecosystem:

  • GDI User Portal: For researchers, clinicians, policy-makers and other data users

    • Discover datasets: Search and explore available genomic datasets across Europe
    • Request access: Submit access requests for research or clinical purposes
    • Access data: Receive approved access to genomic data for authorised research
    • Accessible at: portal.gdi.lu

  • GDI Data Catalogue: For data stewards, catalogue managers, and data managers

    • Publish datasets: Add genomic datasets and metadata to the federated network
    • Manage organisations: Oversee institutional data contributions
    • Configure harvesters: Set up automated metadata collection from data sources
    • Accessible at: catalogue.portal.gdi.lu
Dataset portals

Dataset metadata published in the Data Catalogue becomes discoverable through the User Portal, creating a federated network where European genomic data remains distributed but searchable.

Technical foundation​

  • Federated architecture - Data stays in original locations while metadata is shared
  • FAIR principles - Data is Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable
  • Built on CKAN - Uses proven open-source data portal technology
  • European standards - Complies with GDPR and European genomic data sharing frameworks