This course will train scientists in molecular and genomic techniques for microbiological diagnostics and infection epidemiology.

TOPICS COVERED

The course will cover a range of diagnostic techniques including:

  • Design, implementation, and interpretation of real-time PCR tests for pathogen detection
  • Molecular approaches to detect multiple pathogens
  • Whole genome sequencing (WGS)
  • PCR and sequence-based isolate characterisation
  • Bioinformatics analysis and data interpretation
  • Outbreak investigation and public health application
  • Monitoring response to treatment
  • Data analysis, interpretation, display and dissemination

Topics included in practical classes, demonstrations, and/or lectures:

  • Theoretical concepts for modernising and developing a molecular diagnostic service
  • Conceptual basis and background to microbial phylogenetic analysis and population biology
  • Specimen collection and contamination problems
  • Whole genome sequencing technologies and clinical applications
  • Technique discrimination – identifying the question and choosing the appropriate technique
  • Case studies demonstrating the relative merits of different approaches
  • Presenting molecular data in the context of clinical scenarios

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

  • Clinical scientists
  • Specialist registrars or consultants in medical microbiology

SPEAKERS

  • Martin Maiden, University of Oxford, UK
  • Stephen Gillespie, University of St Andrews, UK
  • Katarina Oravcova, University of Glasgow, UK
  • Charlene Rodrigues, University of Oxford, UK

For more information, please contact: [email protected]

  • 14:00 - 14/01/2024 to 16:30 - 19/01/2024
  • Wellcome Connecting Science, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, United Kingdom