African Genomics Short Course

Genomics is rapidly transforming biomedical research, health, and innovation globally. In Africa, growing investment in infrastructure, data, and networks has created momentum to harness genomics to address local and global health challenges, biodiversity, and development. However, achieving this potential requires coordinated efforts to build research capacity, ensure equitable data generation and access, and strengthen African leadership across the genomics ecosystem.

This inaugural short course is a flagship collaboration between the African Society of Human Genetics (AfSHG), the University of Cape Town (UCT), faculty members from African universities, Wellcome Connecting Science, The Jackson Laboratory, John Hopkins University and a growing network of regional and global partners committed to advancing genomics in Africa. Designed to reflect the continent’s pivotal role in the history and future of genomics, this intensive 10-day residential course brings together early and mid-career researchers from across Africa to build interdisciplinary knowledge, strengthen practical skills, and develop leadership capacity to advance genomics research. Participants will critically explore foundational and emerging topics in genomics, engage in hands-on analysis using accessible tools and datasets, and examine case studies rooted in African-led initiatives. The course will also highlight ethical research practices, with a focus on local and global contexts and how research can be applied equitably.

Through practical sessions, expert-led seminars, peer exchange, and project-based learning, the course will also provide a platform to strengthen networks, nurture innovation, and support participants to become catalysts for sustainable capacity development in their home institutions and countries.

Target audience

This course is aimed at researchers and clinical professionals based in Africa who are actively engaged in genomics, bioinformatics, or closely related fields. It is particularly suited for early to mid-career scientists, including advanced PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and healthcare professionals (e.g. clinicians, genetic counsellors, lab scientists) contributing to genomics research or its application in healthcare. Ideal candidates will have some hands-on experience in generating or analysing genomic data, and a demonstrated commitment to strengthening research and training capacity within their institutions or regions.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Critically evaluate foundational concepts in genomics and bioinformatics in-relation to African research priorities.
• Apply advanced practical skills to generate, analyse, and interpret genomic data using accessible tools and workflows.
• Assess and integrate ethical, equitable, and context-specific considerations into genomics research.
• Analyse the potential and limitations of genomics technologies to advance health and scientific discovery.
• Demonstrate leadership, collaboration, and professional reflective practice to support African genomics capacity.

Programme includes:

• Seminars on genomics fundamentals, African genomic diversity, bioinformatics workflows, and translational research
• Hands-on training in genomic data analysis using open-source tools
• Case studies of African genomics projects and innovation
• Structured reflection on leadership, collaboration, and research sustainability
• Group projects and peer mentoring activities

Organisers

Ambroise Wonkam
John Hopkins University, USA

Vicky Nembaware 
University of Cape Town, South Africa 

Alice Matimba
Wellcome Connecting Science, UK

Michelle Bishop
Wellcome Connecting Science, UK

Rolanda Julius 
University of Cape Town, South Africa 

Isabela Malta
Wellcome Connecting Science, UK

Chandré Oosterwyk-Liu
University of Cape Town, South Africa

Scarlett Storr
Wellcome Connecting Science, UK

Kita Magangana
University of Cape Town, South Africa