Sequence Bio, the St. John’s company that analyzes genetic data to improve medical outcomes, has signed a partnership agreement with the government of Newfoundland and Labrador to conduct research in the province.

The parties last week announced the partnership in a statement, saying it will support commercial research and development opportunities in precision medicine.

Founded in 2013, Sequence works with partners to analyze vast sets of data from gene pools to get a deeper understanding of which people are at the greatest risk of contracting a disease. It recently signed an agreement with Memorial University to use the university’s genetic databank to study colon cancer.

Sequence Bio was founded by entrepreneurs Tyler Wish and Chris Gardner to capitalize on Newfoundland’s genetic data. The island has a rare — possibly unique — genetic grouping of families that have lived on the island for generations and who have distinct genetic markers.

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“Our government continues to explore opportunities to foster the development of a strong life sciences sector in the province, and this agreement is a step forward in positioning Newfoundland and Labrador as a world leader in precision medicine,” Steve Kent, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Community Services, said in the statement.

The statement said Sequence Bio will lead the initiative to collect and analyze genetic data in the province for drug discovery and improved patient outcomes. The results of the research will help improve health care decision-making through a more personalized approach, said the release.

“We are uniquely positioned to become a global player in this industry and are focused on ensuring families and patients in our province, together with their health care teams, have improved patient outcomes and enhanced care,” said Wish.