Exploring microbial communities through metagenomics bioinformatics

Genome‑resolved metagenomics offers powerful ways to uncover the structure and function of microbial communities, and this training provides a clear, practical introduction to the tools and workflows used in the field. You explore how to manage, share, analyse, and interpret metagenomic datasets, with a strong focus on assembly‑based approaches and the generation of metagenome‑assembled genomes (MAGs). Learning takes place through live lectures, Q&A sessions with trainers, and hands‑on group activities using containerised tools on dedicated training infrastructure.

Across the course, you gain experience in quality control, decontamination, assembly, functional annotation, and the use of public resources such as MGnify, ENA, HMMER, InterPro, and pathway‑analysis tools. You also learn how to submit metagenomic data to community standards and repositories.

'Exploring microbial communities through metagenomics bioinformatics 2027' is currently in development. Sign up for alerts to hear as this course develops.

This course opens applications on 14 December 2026. Click to register your interest using the button on the right-hand side of this course website to hear as the course develops. 

Whilst you wait, we encourage you to read our support page for advice before starting your application.

Once opened, you will need to submit all your documents during the application process by 23:59 UK time on 28 March 2027.

You will then be informed of the status of your application (successful, waiting list, unsuccessful) by 8 April 2026.  

If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact your Senior Event Manager, Sophie Spencer.