Polygenic Risk Score Analysis - Africa
22–27 June 2025
Kampala, Uganda
Course Summary
The growing availability of African genomic datasets is opening new opportunities to deepen our understanding of the aetiology of human diseases. As African genomic data from genome-wide analytical studies continues to grow, it is crucial to empower African scientists with the tools and approaches needed to analyse these data using state-of-the-art tools and methodologies, advancing research and genomics applications both in Africa and globally.
This short course is designed to equip scientists based in Africa with the skills and knowledge to perform polygenic risk scores (PRS) analysis. Participants will explore both theoretical and practical aspects of PRS research through lectures, tutorials, hands-on computational sessions, and guest seminars by experts in the field. By the end of the workshop, attendees will have a strong grasp of PRS concepts and practical expertise to analyse global genomic data.
The course begins with a high-level overview of genome-wide association studies, followed by foundational and advanced topics in PRS, such as pathway-based PRS and methods for identifying rare variants. A key focus will be the “PRS Portability Problem” and strategies for applying PRS to diverse and admixed ancestry samples. The workshop concludes with group projects where participants design, conduct, and present research, receiving feedback from the workshop team.
Target audience
Students and scientists based in Africa who are interested in the theory and/or application of polygenic risk scores, important for those undertaking research in: Bioinformatics, Genetic Epidemiology, Population Genetics, Statistical Genetics, Clinical Genetics, and Quantitative Genetics.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Analyse the use of GWAS and PRS methods in investigating the genetic basis of disease aetiology.
- Describe how PRS is used to determine complex disease genetic risk.
- Perform key steps in PRS analysis using standard methodologies and tools.
- Utilise appropriate tools and software to analyse global genomic datasets from diverse and admixed populations.
- Evaluate and interpret results generated from PRS analyses.
- Customise data visualisations to effectively present PRS analysis results.
Programme
The course will run over five and a half days (Sunday to Friday) and will include a combination of lectures, tutorials, computational practicals, and special guest seminars from leading experts in the field. Participants will have multiple opportunities to engage with the training team in a one-to-one setting, as well as to interact with other attendees throughout the week. This approach is designed to foster a supportive, collegiate, and interactive environment, maximising learning for all participants.
The course will begin with an introduction to Polygenic Risk Scores (PRS), providing a solid foundation before progressing to more advanced topics. The week will conclude with a mini research project, carried out in groups of 4–5 participants. This project will enable attendees to apply their PRS knowledge and skills in a practical, real-time setting.
Course Topics
- Introduction to PRS: Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) for PRS, calculating PRS, running PRS software, interpreting PRS results
- Advanced PRS Topics: pathway PRS, PRS to detect rare variants
- PRS in Diverse Ancestries: the PRS portability problem, methods for addressing PRS portability issues, PRS for diverse and admixed population samples
Course instructors
Scientific Organising Committee

Itunuoluwa Isewon
Covenant University, Nigeria

Conrad Iyegbe
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Segun Fatumo
Queen Mary University of London and MRC Uganda
How to apply
Prerequisites:
We expect that attendees will have some prior background in GWAS (ideally having previously performed GWAS analyses or otherwise having a good understanding of the basics of GWAS) and that they will be well-experienced in performing computational genetics analyses and related software. The workshop is designed for students/scientists who are familiar with computational research rather than only wet lab or clinical studies.
Target audience
Students and scientists based in Africa who are interested in the theory and/or application of polygenic risk scores, important for those undertaking research in: Bioinformatics, Genetic Epidemiology, Population Genetics, Statistical Genetics, Clinical Genetics, and Quantitative Genetics.
How to Apply
Please click on the Apply button above to begin the application process. Places are limited and will be awarded on merit. If you have any problems with the online application process, please contact us.
Please note: Applications must be supported by a recommendation from a scientific or clinical sponsor (e.g. supervisor, line manager or head of department). A request for a supporting statement will be sent to your nominated sponsor automatically during the application process. Applicants must ensure that their sponsor provides this supporting statement by the application deadline. Applications without a supporting statement cannot be considered.
Cost
The course is funded by Wellcome Connecting Science and is free to attend.
Bursaries:
Bursaries are offered based on merit to assist with travel, accommodation, and living expenses during the course. To apply, please complete the “bursary” section on the course application form. Recipients will typically be informed of their award in conjunction with their course acceptance. Please keep in mind that both the applicant and sponsor must provide a justification for the bursary as part of the application process.
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Testimonials
Feedback from previous Polygenic Risk Score Analysis – Africa course:
“My expectations were to learn about PRS and network but the course has given me more than that – the exposure to how people are managing to make an impact in this field. Simply knowing that there are all these people doing such amazing work is inspirational. I am so inspired to do more and make an impact not just for me but towards the advancement of research in Africa” – Course attendee from 2024
“I strongly agree that attending this workshop has helped me to start thinking critically about a novel way of doing research in a smart way. It is making me think of delving into a new course of research. “ – Course attendee from 2024
“The exploration of novel methods and advanced PRS topics were really helpful. Also, the practical components to develop simultaneous skills (e.g. coding and theory). Instructors were very helpful and went through each topic from basic to advanced.” – Course attendee from 2023