Protecting one of the largest biosciences data centres in Europe

Wellcome Sanger Institute Data Centre Resilience Assessment and Analysis

As a leader in genome research, the Wellcome Sanger Institute is home to one of the largest biosciences data centres in Europe. The Institute generates and analyses huge volumes of genomic data every day—maintaining data centre uptime is crucial to their work. To proactively manage risk, the Institute asked our team to complete an in-depth assessment of continuity risks, solutions for maintaining uptime, and ways to increase energy efficiency.

We undertook a detailed site survey to review the existing equipment, its condition, and the potential for improvement. We analysed the operational management of the data centre and assessed it against British uptime standards. Our analysis included an in-depth review of the technical setup, existing and redundant systems, two separate data hall setups, and opportunities for improvement. We advised on risk areas and mitigation, highlighting new areas to monitor and action, and explained how to realise the full potential of the data halls.

Additionally, we worked with the Institute to understand the constraints and abilities of their existing facilities to handle new, more efficient equipment in the future. We also generated three levels of intervention that could be undertaken, giving the Institute options for future investment.

As a charity-funded research facility, energy efficiency is also of paramount importance. We advised on current energy efficiency levels and identified ways to optimise the technology without compromising uptime and reliability.

Through this effort, the Institute can manage risk and continue delivering research to improve health worldwide.