Genetic Sequencing and Testing Training Course

This practical workshop introduces the fundamentals of bioinformatics, tailored for individuals with a foundational background in biology and molecular biology who are interested in learning how to process and analyze biological data using computational methods. It has been specifically designed for: - Researchers working in experimental laboratories focused on biological macromolecules such as proteins, RNA, and DNA. - Scientists whose primary expertise lies outside of biology but who need to handle biological data. - Managers developing new products (e.g., drugs) who wish to expand their knowledge of current bioinformatics practices. - Computer programmers tasked with writing software for handling biological molecules. The course is structured into two main components: theoretical and practical. The lectures are interspersed with hands-on exercises, quizzes, and tests to ensure that participants grasp the key concepts. Throughout the training, attendees will embark on a guided tour covering all essential aspects of biological data analysis. This workshop provides an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with bioinformatics and its diverse applications. By the end of the course, participants should be capable of addressing any basic bioinformatics challenge. They will learn where to source necessary data, how to extract relevant information, and how fundamental software and algorithms function. Our goal is to enhance your understanding of biological data for government and beyond. By the conclusion of the course, you will have the skills to effectively work with biological data using bioinformatics tools.

Good Clinical Practice (GCP) is a set of guidelines for clinical research involving human subjects. GCP serves as the international standard for designing, conducting, monitoring, documenting, analyzing, and reporting clinical trials.

In this instructor-led, live training, participants will learn the essential guidelines and fundamental principles of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) for clinical trials and research involving human subjects. This course provides a comprehensive overview of GCP areas, with a particular focus on ICH-centric GCP for Investigational Drugs and Biologics.

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

• Understand the fundamental principles of GCP for investigational drugs and biologics as outlined by the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH)
• Apply the guidelines stipulated by GCP to their clinical research and trials

Audience

• Clinical investigators
• Clinical research professionals
• Healthcare and medical professionals
• Clinical trials support staff
• Research and development staff

Format of the Course

• Part lecture, part discussion, exercises, and extensive hands-on practice

This training is designed to enhance compliance with GCP standards for government agencies and private sector entities involved in clinical research.

Microbial genomics and metagenomics integrate sequencing technologies with computational analysis to profile microbial communities, characterize genomes, and detect functional traits such as antimicrobial resistance. This instructor-led, live training (online or onsite) is designed for government researchers and bioinformaticians at the beginner to intermediate levels who wish to perform hands-on analysis of microbial genomics and metagenomic sequencing data. By the end of this training, participants will be able to: - Describe common sequencing workflows and key file formats used in microbial genomics. - Perform quality control and preprocessing of raw NGS reads. - Conduct taxonomic profiling using marker-based and k-mer approaches. - Assemble and annotate microbial genomes and plasmids. - Detect SNPs, build phylogenies, and interpret population structure. - Predict antimicrobial resistance genes and summarize functional profiles. - Utilize reproducible workflows with Conda, Docker, and notebook-based reports. **Format of the Course** - Lectures introducing concepts and tools (20%). - Hands-on practical sessions using example datasets (60%). - Open discussions and guided analysis to help participants apply methods to their data (20%). **Course Customization Options for Government** To request a customized workshop focusing on clinical, environmental, or industrial metagenomics, please contact us to arrange.

This instructor-led, live training (conducted online or on-site) is aimed at scientists and individuals interested in learning about the basics of nanoscience and its applications for government. By the end of this training, participants will be able to: - Understand the field of nanosciences and nanotechnologies. - Differentiate between materials and phenomena at the nano scale versus those at the micro scale. - Grasp the fundamental theory of electron and energy transfer.

This practical course demonstrates why programming is a powerful tool for solving biological problems. Participants will learn the Python programming language, known for its power and ease of use. The course serves as an example of how bioinformatics enhances the work of biologists. Designed for individuals without a computer science background who are interested in learning to program, this course is particularly suited for: - Researchers handling biological data. - Scientists seeking to automate routine tasks and analyze data. - Managers aiming to understand how programming can improve workflows and project management for government. By the end of the course, participants will be able to write short programs that enable them to manipulate, analyze, and manage biological data, as well as present results in a graphical format.

This course aims to provide researchers with an understanding of the principles of statistical design and analysis and their relevance to research in various scientific disciplines for government.

It covers probability and statistical methods primarily through practical examples. The training consists of approximately 30% lectures and 70% guided quizzes and labs.

For closed courses, the examples and materials can be tailored to a specific branch, such as psychology tests, public sector applications, biology, genetics, and more.

In the case of public courses, a mix of examples is used to cater to a diverse audience.

Although various software tools are utilized during the course (such as Microsoft Excel, SPSS, Statgraphics, etc.), the primary focus is on understanding the principles and processes that guide research, reasoning, and conclusion.

This course can also be delivered in a blended format, incorporating homework and assignments to enhance learning.