Developing genomics knowledge, skills and careers for scientists in Africa!

Building capacity in biomedicine and genomics for research and healthcare communities, through regional training hubs, across Africa.

The practical aspect of the training has allowed me to capitalise on all of these subjects we were taught. The skills and knowledge related to these topics were really relevant and have given me a comprehensive understanding, along with practical examples. I am now able to propose meaningful and effective content for each of these subjects. At my institute, we are in the midst of development, so I will have the opportunity to establish procedures that adhere to best practice standards and the new vision of the institute.

2023 workshop participant in Africa

Developed and delivered alongside trusted regional partners, Wellcome Connecting Science provides application-based courses, to meet specific training needs in Africa. Held in training hubs across the continent, we enable scientists to develop the skills and confidence to use the latest genomics tools and techniques to address some of the most challenging African science research questions.

We focus on training scientists to use the tools and approaches that are accessible, affordable, and can be implemented within the African region they operate in.

We build communities of practice, by joining together networks of scientists with similar challenges and needs; cultivating continuing relationships for further impact after a single course or workshop. We foster environments for skills development, knowledge exchange, collaboration, and mentoring in discovery science, genomics, and global public health.

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Some of the training topics we cover include:

  • Genome sequencing bioinformatics
  • Polygenic risk score analysis for global health
  • Molecular approaches to clinical microbiology
  • Cancer genome analysis
  • Drug discovery
  • Antimicrobial resistance
  • Infectious diseases in Africa
A collage of four colour photos demonstrating our training activities supporting scientists in Africa. Photo one (top left) shows a group of African scientists seated around a square table, working together on a group project. Photo two (top right) shows a group of learners in a classroom in Africa; the presenter is working on a blackboard, and the participants are facing the board. Photo three (bottom left) shows a course participant standing in front of a flipchart of information, pointing towards a written diagram. Photo four (bottom right) shows a participant seated a table, holding a microphone.
We connect scientists across the continent to learn from each other, and collaborate on shared challenges responsive to regional needs.

Connecting Science’s mission is to enable everyone to explore genomic science and its impact on research, health and society – wherever you are based across the globe. Our Learning and Training team is committed to delivering equitable and accessible genomics training and mentoring for scientists based in Africa, to support the future genetics research workforce!

Sign up for free regular e-updates and discover how you can learn with us, connect with your peers, and accelerate your scientific career in Africa!

My expectations were exceeded for several compelling reasons. Firstly, I highly valued the ice-breaking activities that were conducted right from the outset of the course; they provided an effective foundation for networking. Secondly, the course content was exceptional, providing invaluable insights into training individuals in pathogen genomics, encompassing both wet and dry lab techniques. Furthermore, it offered comprehensive guidance on establishing a state-of-the-art pathogen genomic laboratory, as well as the development of data analysis capabilities. The programme even included valuable information on personnel recruitment, ensuring the right expertise for the lab. Lastly, a key aspect that impressed me was the emphasis on effectively communicating research findings to non-scientific audiences, encompassing funding organisations, stakeholders, and local communities.

Pathogen Genomics course participant in Africa

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