Nanopore sequencing has revolutionised sequencing for biosecurity due to its portability, small footprint, and minimal capital investment. It can be used to reconstruct full genomes, detect pathogens in complex samples, and trace pathogen evolution in real time as highlighted by the tremendous work on Sars-Cov2 during the pandemic. Nanopore sequencing also has important applications in agriculture and food security such as crop pathogen and agrochemical resistance detection. To fully exploit the potential of Nanopore sequencing and to modernise Australian biosecurity we need to build capacity and proficiency for end-users with hands-on workshops in sequencing and data analysis.
This biosecurity focused workshop aims to contribute to capacity building and establish a Nanopore community of practice focusing on biosecurity and eDNA. We will share our collective knowledge on Nanopore long-read sequencing applications we have accumulated since 2016 and encourage others to do the same. See similar ANU run workshop in 2022 https://cba.anu.edu.au/news-events/events/nanopore-sequencing-biosecurity
This full three-day intensive community workshop is tailored to build collective capacity by providing:
- Insights into the latest Nanopore sequencing technology
- World-class introduction to sample preparation with either a focus on amplicon (e.g. metabarcoding) or whole genome sequencing
- Hands-on training
- Experience in quality control
- Introductions to downstream bioinformatic data analysis
- Q&A panel discussion on how to apply Nanopore sequencing to biosecurity issues
Expression of Interest
Places for the workshop, both wet and dry lab, are strictly limited to 40 attendees. We will have two lab components with places for 20 people in each:
Session A – focusing on amplicon and metabarcode sequencing; and
Session B – focusing on native DNA long-read sequencing for genome assembly.
Workshop spots will be assigned to achieve maximum impact across the sector. If the workshop is oversubscribed, we will reach out to laboratories and institutions with multiple applicants.
The selection committee will also consider a diversity of participants in all shapes and colours. We will strive towards a diverse and inclusive workshop experience for everyone.
There are a limited number of fellowships available worth $400 each to assist with attending the workshop. These fellowships can be used for offsetting travel costs, registration fees, childcare expenses, partner travel or similar.
Applications will close 30 April, 2023. Successful applicants will be notified and sent a registration link by 14 May 2023.
Expressions of Interest are now closed.
Program outline
The workshop will be held 27-29 June at the Bentley Campus of the Curtin University, Perth. There will be three full days starting 9am and finishing 5-6pm depending on progress.
We will provide morning tea each day and food and drinks for the social event. Dietary requirements can be requested at registration. Lunch and coffee can be purchased at the nearby Common Ground Café and guild Cafes.
Pre-workshop
- Registrants will be able to submit their own sample before the workshop
- Computers will be provided for wet lab sessions but you will need to bring your own laptop for the bioinformatics sessions with VirtualBox installed prior to the workshop. Detailed instructions will be emailed.
