Metagenomics: from bench to data analysis 2016

What is the workshop about?

A substantial part of the course will be devoted to bioinformatics resources and tools relevant in metagenomics data analysis. Participants will start at the bench and end in front of the computers for a problem solving activity utilizing the bioinformatics training they will be receiving during the course.

What will it cover?

To provide an overview of the main aspects involved in metagenomics from the bench to data analysis and discussion around the interpretation and actual examples of the impact and applications of metagenomics derived research.

What will I learn?

• An overview of NGS for metagenomics and metatranscriptomics including current projects
• Knowledge of 16S Experimental Design including primer design and sources of error
• Hands on experience in: DNA isolation, QC of the DNA, NGS library construction and loading the sequencing platform
• An overview of software for analysis and interpretation of metagenomics datasets and some basic analytical workflows
• Hands-on experience of a case study dataset including FastQC, trimming and host removal
• Understanding assembly principles and the latest metagenomics assembly tools
• Hands on experience in metagenomics assembly
• Using MEGAN to explore metagenomic and metatranscriptomic data including taxonomic and functional annotation, multiple comparison methods and production of publication quality images
• An overview and hands on experience in public data resources for metagenomics e.g. IMG/M, EBI Metagenomics, MG-RAST

Target Audience:

This course is aimed at advanced PhD students and post-doctoral researchers who are doing or planning to start research in the field of metagenomics.

Scientific Organisers:

• Emily Angiolini, Earlham Institute (EI), UK
• Kirsten McLay, Earlham Institute (EI), UK
• Leah Catchpole, Earlham Institute (EI), UK
• Richard Leggett, Earlham Institute (EI), UK
• Mark Alston, Earlham Institute (EI), UK