In Memoriam – Prof. Amos Bairoch

Abstract

Prof. Amos Bairoch (1957–2025) was one of the most influential and transformative figures in modern bioinformatics, a scientist whose vision reshaped how biological information is curated, accessed, and understood. As the creator of Swiss-Prot, UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot, PROSITE, ENZYME, and several other foundational databases, he defined the gold standard for accuracy, manual curation, and open accessibility in protein knowledgebases. His work enabled generations of researchers and laid the groundwork for breakthroughs across genomics, proteomics, biotechnology, precision medicine, and systems biology.

A professor at the University of Geneva and a driving force at the Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB), Prof. Bairoch dedicated his life to building high-quality, sustainable, community-oriented resources that serve millions of users worldwide. He was not only an exceptional innovator but also a generous mentor and a passionate advocate for open science, training and inspiring countless scientists who continue to carry forward his vision.

The EMBnet community mourns his sudden passing with profound sadness. Amos was a colleague, collaborator, and friend whose impact on our field—and on global Life Sciences—cannot be overstated. His legacy endures in the resources he created, the standards he established, and the many people whose careers he touched. We honour his memory with deep respect, gratitude, and heartfelt sorrow.