Implementing genomics research in developing countries: Common challenges, and emerging solutions

The pace of genomics research continues to accelerate, with thousands of new samples being sequenced every year. These data have reshaped and continue to contribute to our understanding of human population history and the genetic architecture of complex diseases. However, these genomic datasets are not equally distributed among human populations, with over 80% of samples coming from populations of European descent. Genomic datasets from African and Latin American nations, in particular, remain vastly underrepresented in the literature. In this chapter, we summarize some of the structural factors contributing to this disparity and some common challenges that researchers face when designing and implementing large population genomic studies in developing countries. We summarize best practices for better incorporating participant communities and local researchers into these projects and provide our insights and recommendations for solutions to both common and emerging challenges that we have faced implementing genomic research projects in these settings.