Course English

Mastering WGS and Metagenomics using Oxford Nanopore Long Read Sequencing. Bench-lab training

Hands-on training in Oxford Nanopore (ONT) long-read sequencing for WGS and metagenomics. This technology is taking over genomic research, diagnostics, and personalized medicine.

In the field of genomics and disease diagnostics sequencing ONT stands out as a cutting-edge technology enabling real-time, long-read sequencing, with portable devices. We introduce ONT technology and devices, with the goal of covering biological samples to sequencing data workflows for: whole genome sequencing (WGS) from bacteria, metagenomics from faeces and 16S rRNA sequencing from faeces as preliminary examples. The course covers wet lab preparation of HMW DNA extractions, and libraries from genomic DNA, with a focus on the critical steps and potential pitfalls and understanding what constitutes a ‘good’ sample for purpose of best results using the technology.

A student who has met the objectives of the course will be able to:

Recognize the fundamental concepts and workflows of Oxford Nanopore Sequencing as changes in electrical current to represent DNA sequences.
Identify the components and functionalities of ONT devices.
Explain the principles of HMW DNA extraction and be able to perform it.
Link the quality of HMW DNA to Long Read Sequencing quality using ONT.
Perform sample preparation, DNA extraction and sequencing runs using ONT.
Apply ONT techniques to real-world genomic research problems and on-site sequencing (in the field).
Analyze and troubleshoot sequencing data to assess quality and accuracy.
Interpret the basic data analyses from the sequencing runs.
Design and conduct a mini-research project using ONT, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills.
Implement ONT into your own research questions.

Employees gain expertise in long-read ONT sequencing for diagnostics, food safety, microbiome, and clinical or environmental genomics. They will be able to run ONT workflows in-house, from DNA extraction to library preparation and sequencing, and optimize sample processing and sequencing protocols to fit the needs. This hands-on course will enable them to run diagnostics more rapidly than traditional diagnostics.

PhD students, researchers, lab staff, including clinicians, in diagnostics, food, clinical, environmental,

and biotech fields using WGS and metagenomics.

The course will include very few and short theory sessions to start the day and introduce the concepts. Then followed by bench work for the remainder of the day. The course will finish with applying the learned methods and protocols to the participant own research. We encourage the participant to bring their own samples after a discussion with the course responsible. There will be reading materials (mainly protocols) to be covered by the participants before the start of the course.

Where is the lecture conducted?

DTU Lyngby Campus

When does the course start and take place:

DTU Lyngby Campus 25-29 May 2026 (yes, Whitsun day is included)

The duration of the course/programme:

5 days

Admission requirements:

Brief knowledge of ONT is desirable but not essential. Microbiology and molecular biology (DNA) knowledge are required.

NB!

DTU PhD students must register for these courses through the Study Planner.