Event Scientific training

Introduction to Python and Machine Learning

This workshop will provide a basic introduction into using Python for Machine Learning application, starting with the basics of Python, before looking at a few packages that are particularly useful for data exploration and visualisation.

Start date: 12 May 2025
End date: 16 May 2025
Time: 09.00 - 17.00
Venue: Earlham Institute (Norwich UK)
Organiser: Emily Angiolini
Enquiries:

training@earlham.ac.uk

 

Registration deadline: 27 April 2025
Cost: £550

About the event

Python is a dynamic, readable language that is a popular platform for all types of bioinformatics work, from simple one-off scripts to large, complex software projects. 

This workshop is aimed at complete beginners and assumes no prior programming experience. We will start with the very basics of Python, before looking at a few packages that are particularly useful for data exploration and visualisation. 

We will then use these skills to start exploring the world of machine learning, with an emphasis on high-level descriptions of algorithms, practical applications, and the use of visualisations to get an intuitive sense of how our models behave.  

 After completing the workshop, students should be in a position to:

  1. apply the skills they have learned to tackling problems in their own research and  
  2. dive more deeply into areas of machine learning and data science that are relevant to research work.  

All course materials (including copies of presentations, practical exercises, data files, and example scripts prepared by the instructing team) will be provided electronically to participants.

Who is this training for?

This workshop is aimed at all researchers and technical workers with a background in biology who want to learn about practical machine learning. 

The syllabus has been planned with complete beginners in mind; people with previous experience in Python/pandas/seaborn/sklearn are welcome to attend but should view the first couple of sessions as a refresher. 

If in doubt, take a look at the detailed session content under Session Information tab or drop Martin Jones (martin@pythonforbiologists.com) an email.

Pre-requisites

Students should have enough biological background to appreciate the examples and exercise problems (i.e. they should know about DNA and protein sequences. No previous programming experience or computer skills (beyond the ability to use a text editor) are necessary, but you'll need to have a laptop with Python installed.

Course fees

Please be aware that places are offered to Earlham Institute staff and students in the first instance. 

If you are a member of staff from the John Innes Centre or Quadram Institute, please email training@earlham.ac.uk and CC training@nbi.ac.uk to register your interest and we will provide the password to complete registration if spaces are available. 

The anticipated registration fees are £550 per delegate, assuming all 16 spaces are filled. These costs will be covered by core training budgets at EI for EI staff and students, and by the Learning and Development team for those based at JIC and QIB (please ensure you have your line manager’s permission to register). 

Register today.

Registration deadline: 27 April 2025

Participation: Invite only