Back to: Genomic data applications & their appreciation

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Course Description:

This course is designed to introduce public health professionals to the field of genomic epidemiology. As genomic technologies become increasingly critical in understanding and controlling infectious diseases, public health workers need to harness the power of genomics to improve population health. This course provides an introductory overview of genomic epidemiology, emphasizing the role of public health collaborators in the practical applications in disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) monitoring.

Modules:

  1. Genomic Epidemiology for Public Health
    Understand the fundamental concepts of genomic epidemiology and its importance in public health strategies. Learn how genomic data can be applied to track disease outbreaks, monitor pathogen evolution, and inform health interventions.
  2. Empowering Genomic Epidemiology through the Use of Data
    Explore the various data sources and analytical tools that drive genomic epidemiology. This module highlights the importance of digital epidemiology for data integration and how to transform information into actionable public health insights.
  3. How to Build a System for Success
    Learn the essential components required to implement and scale a successful genomic epidemiology program within a public health infrastructure. This module covers system design, workflow optimization, and data-sharing practices.
  4. Behind the Sequences: The Wet Lab Journey of AMR Surveillance
    Delve into the laboratory techniques that underpin genomic surveillance for antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Understand the sample-to-sequence process, including sample preparation, and sequencing methods.
  5. From 4-letters to Biological Insights
    Gain insights into how genomic sequences (A, T, C, G) are translated into meaningful biological information. This module introduces bioinformatics approaches and how public health workers can utilize genomic data to draw relevant conclusions about disease dynamics.

Hands-on Exercise: In the final part of the course, participants will apply their knowledge through a hands-on exercise. They will work in groups with real-world genomic data using tools introduced throughout the course to analyze genomic sequences, identify outbreaks, and make public health recommendations.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Grasp the basics of genomic epidemiology and its role in public health.
  • Learn to interpret and apply genomic data in disease surveillance and outbreak management.
  • Understand the workflow of genomic surveillance for AMR.
  • Develop skills to set up and manage a genomic epidemiology system within a public health setting.
  • Gain practical experience with genomic epidemiology tools through hands-on exercises.

This course is ideal for public health workers seeking to build or enhance their capacity in genomic epidemiology and to be at the forefront of modern disease surveillance and response.

This workshop is funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).