Viome Signs Agreement to Explore Molecular AI Model in Bhutan

Viome Life Sciences, Druk Holding & Investments, and Gelephu Mindfulness City signed a memorandum of understanding to explore a molecular foundation model and research center in Bhutan, the parties announced in a press release. The agreement was signed in New York on September 25 and is an initial step toward an investment proposal and definitive agreements.

The proposed AI model would train on Viome's metatranscriptomic dataset and support applications including diagnostics, drug target validation, and companion diagnostics. Druk Holding & Investments would assist with funding, building, and powering a dedicated computing facility using Bhutanese hydropower. Gelephu Mindfulness City would provide a regulatory base and clinical validation environment, while Viome would lead scientific and technical work and train Bhutanese scientists and engineers.

The parties plan to complete a joint pre feasibility study within six to ten weeks. It will cover an initial investment case, computing requirements, and a phased plan. Health data from Bhutanese citizens used in the project would remain in Bhutan and be governed there.