Abstract
The last decade has witnessed a remarkable increase in our ability to measure genetic information. Advancements of sequencing technologies are challenging the existing methods of data storage and analysis. While methods to cope with the data deluge are progressing, many biologists have lagged behind due to the fast pace of computational advancements and tools available to address their scientific questions. Future generations of biologists must be more computationally aware and capable. This means they should be trained to give them the computational skills to keep pace with technological developments. Here, we propose a model that bridges experimental and bioinformatics concepts using the Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) sequencing platform. We provide both a guide to begin to empower the new generation of educators, scientists, and students in performing long-read assembly of bacterial and bacteriophage genomes and a standalone virtual machine containing all the required software and learning materials for the course.
Highlights
What defines a biologist? In short, a biologist is a person who studies life and living organisms
We propose a model that bridges experimental and bioinformatics concepts using the Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) sequencing platform. We provide both a guide to begin to empower the new generation of educators, scientists, and students in performing long-read assembly of bacterial and bacteriophage genomes and a standalone virtual machine containing all the required software and learning materials for the course
The students had to address the following research questions, which were introduced at the very beginning of the course: (1) Can we assemble and annotate fully closed genomes from a small number of long reads? (2) What are the considerations for the assembly of metagenomics samples compared to single isolates? (3) What is the advantage of long-read sequencing for the analysis of metagenomics samples? (4) Can we identify virulent and temperate phages in metagenomics samples? (5) What genes of interest can we find in both bacteria and phage genomes?
Summary
Genomes contain all the information required for an organism to function. Understanding the genome sequence is often the key to answer important biological questions. Our capacity to generate genome sequencing data is tremendous. Our capacity to process this information is insufficient This is partially due to limitations of current methods for data analysis but is mostly caused by lack of training for most biologists to leverage high-throughput sequencing data and use their full potential. It is urgent that we train the new generations of biologists to become computationally aware and able to keep pace with technological developments in the field.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
