Microbial Genomics: DNA Sequencing Basics

What you will learn

Gain contemporary skills and knowledge for your job now.

Microbial genomics is revolutionising clinical and public health responses to communicable diseases. Generating high-quality DNA sequence data is a vital part of this process.

This micro-credential is ideal for health professionals seeking a fundamental understanding of the science behind DNA sequencing, best-practice approaches to generating sequence data and how it can help address the public health challenges of our times.

This course is co-designed and delivered in partnership with the Doherty Institute.

Explore the fundamental science of DNA sequencing

Grasp the theory underpinning DNA sequencing and different sequencing approaches (including whole-genome, amplicon, and metagenomics). Review the pros and cons of sequencing when applied to different scenarios.

Discover best-practice DNA sequencing approaches

Understand common DNA extraction, library preparation and sequencing methods. Explore how to mix-and-match methods to create laboratory workflows and hear from experts on their experiences with the implementation and accreditation of next-generation sequencing.

Understand quality control approaches

Investigate different quality control parameters that should be considered when undertaking DNA sequencing and reviewing data outputs. Gain practical experience in assessing data quality, using various approaches including the online genomics platform Galaxy.

Analyse pathogen genomic DNA sequence data

Drawing on your new knowledge, you'll independently examine sequence datasets, evaluating the quality of the data and suitability of the methods used to generate the data for the described scenarios.

This course runs over four weeks, including self-directed learning, guided learning, and two weeks to complete assessment tasks.

Your total time commitment is approximately 40 hours, which includes:

• 9 hours online lectures
• 5 hours self-directed learning
• 6 hours discussion groups
• 4 hours instructor led practical activity
• 16 hours assessment tasks.

Assessment:

• Application of DNA sequencing technologies and approaches to diverse scenarios (40%)
• Independent analysis of pathogen genomic DNA sequence data (60%)

Once you've successfully completed this course, you will be awarded your Microbial Genomics: DNA Sequencing Basics Melbourne MicroCert. This digital certificate will warrant the achievement of knowledge, skills and capabilities outlined in the learning outcomes. It may also include artefacts (such as videos and written material) related to both experiential and work-integrated learning, including translatable assessment that is practical to your professional life. You can also share your Melbourne MicroCert digitally and via social media by adding it to your personal platforms, such as LinkedIn. See example certificate.

Microbial Genomics: DNA Sequencing Basics can be taken as a stand-alone course or complemented with any other micro-credential in the Applied Pathogen Genomics series to deepen your knowledge and skills.

The series includes:

• Microbial Genomics: DNA Sequencing Basics
• Microbial Genomics: Bioinformatic Analysis Basics
• Microbial Genomics: Applications for Public Health
• Microbial Genomics: Applications for Clinical Sciences.

It is recommended you complete this micro-credential as the first in the series, then proceed to Microbial Genomics: Bioinformatic Analysis Basics, and then complete the rest in the series.

This course is predominantly self-directed learning, with opportunities to engage with your cohort and field experts, providing both flexibility and support.

You'll work through written and recorded materials at your own pace, participate in group discussions, and receive valuable guidance and feedback from your course facilitators.

You'll also complete practical activities, including using the online genomics platform Galaxy, to begin applying your knowledge of DNA sequencing.

There is no set expiry date.