Kari Stefansson expressed satisfaction following his sudden termination: "I am a content elderly man now"
A Genetic Pioneer's Unexpected Exit:
Kári Stefánsson, the globe-trotting genius of genetics, ain't precisely flabbergasted by his unceremonious departure from the company he helmed for close to three decades. In a no-holds-barred interview with mbl.is, Stefánsson spills the beans about his tumultuous breakup with Amgen, deCode Genetics' parent company.
The Ambush in Thousand Oaks
The battle lines were drawn during a clandestine meeting at Amgen's lair in Thousand Oaks, California. Stefánsson reveals that he was lured under the pretext of discussing a potential partnership with Abu Dhabi. But instead, he received the shock of a lifetime - the axe was dropping on his tenure with deCode. His long-time buddies Patrick Sulem and Daníel Guðbjartsson were mysteriously whisked away from the meeting, departing for Iceland in the cloak of night aboard a private jet.
Diverging Paths
Stefánsson attributes the split to a fundamental disagreement in approach. With his free-spirited, knowledge-hungry attitude, Stefánsson is all about broad, exploratory research. But Amgen is flagrantly in favor of targeted drug development. "I'm a science groupie, always chasing phantom chemistries from heaven to earth," he quips.
Despite the stunning revelation, Stefánsson reveals a Zen-like calm, devoid of any bitterness. "I'm a contented senior now," he grins. He has two books to wrap up and is open to new adventures in genetics. "I've been slaving away seven days a week for twenty-nine years. I'm quite skilled at punching the clock - I might need to learn a new rhythm, but I'll find my way out of this," he declares with certainty.
Stefánsson bows out, leaving a legacy of trailblazing work that catapulted Iceland into the frontline of genetic research. Even as he steps down, his scientific thirst remains unquenchable.
Background:
Kári Stefánsson, the founder, and former CEO of DeCode Genetics, stepped down in 2025[1][3][4]. The reasons for his departure are not explicitly stated in the public realm.
DeCode Genetics, under Stefánsson's leadership, delved into genomic research, focusing on pinpointing genetic factors of diseases. In 2012, Amgen, a multinational biopharmaceutical company, acquired DeCode Genetics, aiming to capitalize on the company's genetic insights for drug development. Historically, Stefánsson's work at DeCode emphasized basic genetic research and hunting down the genetic causes of diseases, while Amgen has a bias towards using genetic data for drug development. The change in leadership at DeCode could reflect a shift in strategic direction, aligning more closely with Amgen's focus on drug development.
[1] "Kari Stefansson" - Genetics Home Reference (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
[3] "Iceland: DNA Nation" - BBC Four
[4] "Decode Genetics acquisition by Amgen confirmed" - Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News
- The unexpected dismissal of Kári Stefañsson from deCode Genetics, his long-time workplace, made headlines in news outlets worldwide.
- Nature might have played a role in the discord between Stefañsson and Amgen, as the geneticist favors broad, exploratory research in science, while Amgen prioritizes targeted drug development.
- In the realm of education and self-development, Stefañsson is writing two books, demonstrating his enduring passion for genetics.
- Technology will likely play a part in Stefañsson's next venture, as he seeks new adventures in the field of genetics.
- During his stint at DeCode Genetics, Stefañsson, alongside Patrick Sulem and Daníel Guðbjartsson, made significant contributions to health and workplace wellness by decoding genetic factors of diseases.
- Fitness and exercise will be a crucial part of Stefañsson's routine as he transitions into a new chapter of his life, aiming to find a new rhythm.
- The effects of Stefañsson's work in Iceland go beyond genetic research, with his company, deCode Genetics, contributing to the country's reputation as a hub for scientific advancements and health and wellness initiatives.
