# Estonian Genome Project > institution and population-based biological database located in Estonia **Wikidata**: [Q5401558](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5401558) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estonian_Genome_Project) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/estonian-genome-project ## Summary The Estonian Genome Project (also known as the Estonian Biobank) is a research institute and population-based biological database located in Estonia. Established in 2001 and headquartered in Tartu, it serves as a comprehensive genetic repository containing biological data from over 210,000 participants. The organization operates as both a research institution and a gene database, making it a significant resource for genomic research in the Baltic region. ## Key Facts - Founded in 2001 - Also known as: Estonian Biobank - Instance of: research institute, gene database - Location: Tartu, Estonia (coordinates: 58.372915°N, 26.718006°E) - Number of participants: 210,000 or greater (as of February 2024) - Country: Estonia - Websites: https://genomics.ut.ee/et/eesti-geenivaramu (Estonian), https://genomics.ut.ee/en/content/estonian-biobank (English) - Wikipedia coverage: 5 languages (English, Estonian, French, Armenian, Russian) - VIAF ID: 137585136 - ISNI: 000000010790000X - Ringgold ID: 123863 - Library of Congress Authority ID: no2007069900 - Freebase ID: /m/0hr13n1 - Wikidata description: institution and population-based biological database located in Estonia ## FAQs ### What is the difference between the Estonian Genome Project and a standard research institute? While the Estonian Genome Project is classified as a research institute, it uniquely operates simultaneously as a gene database. Unlike traditional research institutes that conduct general scientific inquiry, this organization maintains a population-based biological database, combining research capabilities with systematic genetic data collection. ### How many people have contributed their genetic data to the Estonian Genome Project? The database contains biological data from at least 210,000 participants as of February 2024. This represents a significant portion of Estonia's population, making it one of the more comprehensive national biobanks relative to population size. ### Where is the Estonian Genome Project located? The organization is headquartered in Tartu, Estonia, at coordinates 58.372915° latitude and 26.718006° longitude. Tartu is Estonia's second-largest city and a major academic hub. ### In what languages is information about the Estonian Genome Project available? The organization maintains websites in both Estonian and English. Wikipedia articles about the project exist in five languages: English, Estonian, French, Armenian, and Russian. ## Why It Matters The Estonian Genome Project represents a significant national investment in genomic research infrastructure. By establishing a population-based biobank with over 210,000 participants, Estonia has created a valuable resource for understanding genetic factors in disease, drug response, and population health. The project's scale—representing a substantial fraction of Estonia's approximately 1.3 million residents—enables research that would be difficult to achieve in countries with more fragmented or smaller-scale biobanking efforts. The organization's dual identity as both a research institute and a gene database allows it to conduct original research while also serving as a resource for the broader scientific community. ## Notable For - Combining the functions of a research institute with a comprehensive gene database - Achieving participation from over 210,000 individuals, representing a significant proportion of Estonia's population - Operating as a population-based biological database, one of the more comprehensive national biobanks relative to country size - Maintaining multilingual public presence across five Wikipedia language editions - Serving as a model for national genomic initiatives in smaller countries ## Body ### Organizational Classification and Structure The Estonian Genome Project holds a dual classification as both a research institute and a gene database. As a research institute, it exists as an organization whose primary purpose is conducting systematic scientific investigation. This distinguishes it from universities that balance teaching and research missions, and from corporate research entities that pursue knowledge for commercial ends. The gene database classification reflects its function as a population-based biological repository. The organization is formally recognized across multiple library and knowledge systems. It holds Library of Congress Authority ID no2007069900, VIAF ID 137585136, ISNI 000000010790000X, Ringgold ID 123863, and Freebase ID /m/0hr13n1. ### History and Founding The Estonian Genome Project was established in 2001. The founding date is documented in Estonian Wikipedia records, marking the beginning of systematic genetic data collection in the country. Since its inception, the project has grown to become a significant resource for genomic research. ### Geographic Location and Facilities The organization maintains its headquarters in Tartu, Estonia. The precise coordinates of its location are 58.372915° latitude and 26.718006° longitude. Tartu serves as Estonia's primary academic and research center, making it a fitting location for a national genome project. ### Participant Database As of February 2024, the Estonian Genome Project has collected biological data from 210,000 or more participants. This figure represents a substantial sample size for population-based genetic research, particularly given Estonia's total population of approximately 1.3 million people. The database's scale enables statistically meaningful research into genetic variations, disease associations, and population genetics. ### Digital Presence and Resources The organization maintains websites in both Estonian (https://genomics.ut.ee/et/eesti-geenivaramu) and English (https://genomics.ut.ee/en/content/estonian-biobank). The project has Wikipedia presence across five languages: English, Estonian, French, Armenian, and Russian. This multilingual coverage indicates international recognition and accessibility to diverse research communities. ### Research Institute Context As a research institute, the Estonian Genome Project operates within a specific organizational category distinct from related entities. It is differentiated from scientific societies and learned societies, which are membership-based organizations rather than operational research entities. It also differs from think tanks, which focus primarily on policy-oriented research. The research institute model allows the organization to pursue fundamental scientific inquiry across relevant disciplines without the teaching obligations that characterize university-based research programs. ## References 1. Aligned ISNI and Ringgold identifiers for institutions 2. [Source](https://geenidoonor.ee/geenivaramu)