FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) -- A research center devoted to studying the genetic makeup of disease-causing pathogens has opened in Flagstaff nearly a year after officials announced its creation.

Phoenix's Translational Genomics Research Institute and Northern Arizona University opened the doors of the TGen North facility in Flagstaff on Friday.

Prior to the opening of TGen North, some TGen North researchers were already performing research at an undisclosed temporary facility.

The Flagstaff center will focus on diagnostic, analytic, forensic and epidemiological research related to pathogens important to medicine, public health and biodefense.

Paul Keim, a nationally recognized biosafety expert who is director of TGen's Pathogen Genomics Division, says the center will help advance the basic research being performed at the university and bring it to the private sector.

While Keim is known for his research at Northern Arizona University in dangerous pathogens, especially anthrax, he expects TGen North to study more common diseases like influenza and pneumonia.

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)