Functional Genomics and Systems Biology

13-22 June 2012

Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge
Deadline for applications: 2 March 2012

Course summary

This intensive laboratory and computer-based training course introduces participants to a wide range of post-genome techniques including practical experience in performing RNAi experiments, expression profiling using the latest platforms, yeast 2-hybrid analyses and hands on experience with sample preparation procedures for Illumina high throughput sequencing. Laboratory work will be complemented by training in state-of-the-art approaches to data analysis and interpretation through the use of a range of bioinformatics resources and systems biology tools, including R, Bioconductor, network analysis (e.g. BioLayout Express3D) and pathway modelling. Particular emphasis will be placed upon the integration of complementary approaches to ask specific biological questions.

The course will include seminars by distinguished international speakers who will present cutting-edge research in functional genomics and systems biology.

Programme

RNAi
RNAi has recently emerged as one of the most powerful tools for examining gene function. Different RNAi methodologies will be compared both for RNAi in mammalian cells in culture and in C. elegans in vivo. Participants will carry out a high-throughput RNAi screen, and this will illustrate many of the theoretical considerations in designing such large-scale RNAi experiments. We will also illustrate how RNAi can be combined with microarray analysis to identify pathway targets.

Expression profiling
Practical guidance will be given in the use of commercial and spotted oligo microarray platforms for the analysis of gene miRNA expression. This will involve the use of different RNA and miRNA labelling strategies, hybridisation and image analysis. Participants will be given training in aspects of microarray data analysis and interpretation using a range of commercial and academic software tools. Finally, there will be the opportunity to discuss the theoretical considerations for microarray experimental design and the relative merits of different expression profiling platforms, including emerging sequencing technologies.

Next generation sequencing
Labwork will involve the preparation and quality control of directional small and total RNA libraries for the Illumina GA II genome analyser. Raw data will be collected and analysed using sequence alignment methods during the course. Further statistical and data mining procedures will be applied.

Yeast two-hybrid analysis
Yeast two-hybrid analysis will be used as an approach to identifying novel protein-protein interactions. Experiments will include the construction of baits, library screening, and analysis of clones to minimise artefacts.

Computational Systems Biology
An overview and discussion of current bioinformatics resources most relevant to functional genomics investigations will be provided. These will include information on using genome browsers, gene/protein annotation, microarray data repositories, protein-protein interaction data, and pathway analysis. The course will also provide instruction on the integration of data into interaction and regulatory networks and systems biology approaches to mining and modelling of these data.

Informal tutorials from academic groups and commercial organisations will complement the laboratory sessions.

Course instructors

• Andrew Fraser (University of Toronto, Canada)
• Tom Freeman (The Roslin Institute, Edinburgh, UK)
• David Markie (Dunedin School of Medicine, New Zealand)
• Ioannis Ragoussis (Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford, UK)
• Anton Enright (European Bioinformatics Institute, Hinxton, UK)

2012 Guest speakers to include:

Ido Amit (Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel)
Joshua Levin (Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, USA)
Bret Pearson (University of Toronto, Canada)

Feedback from previous courses

“Excellent. Instructors and assistants outstanding. Benefitted immensely.”

“This course has proved immensely beneficial for my research, the opportunity to discuss my own project with the instructor[s] will help me make significant progress.”

How to apply

Prerequisites
Applicants should be postdoctoral scientists or senior PhD students engaged in relevant research. Applicants with molecular biology and/or some cell culture experience will be particularly welcome.

Cost
This is a residential course, without exception, and there is a fee of £995 towards board and lodging for non-commercial applicants. The fee for commercial applicants is £6000. The course tuition fees are subsidised by The Wellcome Trust for scientists based in academic institutions from anywhere in the world.

Bursaries
Limited bursaries are available for non-commercial applicants (50 per cent of fee) and are subject to open competition.
Bursary application information, plus terms and conditions

Applications
Applicants will be required to complete an application form containing a 300-word outline of the relevance of the course to their research. Please note that documentation supporting their application will be required from the applicant's supervisor/head of department.

To submit an application, please either:

• email for an application form to advancedcourses@hinxton.wellcome.ac.uk
• download the form [Word 116KB] and our terms and conditions [Word 28KB].

Applications can be accepted by post or email. Sponsors' supporting letters must be returned, signed, by fax or post under separate cover. Please note: Incomplete applications will be rejected.

Applications and letters of support should be sent to:

Wellcome Trust Advanced Courses
Wellcome Trust Genome Campus
Hinxton
Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA
UK

F +44 (0) 1223 495130
E advancedcourses@hinxton.wellcome.ac.uk

Deadlines
Deadline for applications: 2 March 2012