Train the Trainer for Genomics and AI Communities - Asia 

This Google DeepMind sponsored workshop brings together bioinformatics experts, educators, trainers, and community champions from across Asia who are committed to advancing genome sequence analysis, training, mentorship, and capacity building. Over five days, participants will strengthen regional connections, exchange experiences, and develop strategies to expand high-quality genomics and bioinformatics training across the region. Building on the success of the GSA Asia multi-classroom model, the workshop will support the growth of a sustainable, Asia-led Community of Practice.

During the workshop, participants will strengthen their teaching and facilitation skills, share effective training practices, and explore how AI can be meaningfully integrated into the delivery of bioinformatics and genomics courses. Through interactive workshops, peer learning, project development, and community-building activities, participants will design future training initiatives, and foster long-term regional collaboration. The workshop aims to expand the network of skilled trainers and community leaders, support the implementation of local training activities, and develop future facilitators who can deliver modern bioinformatics education that incorporates AI effectively and responsibly.

A key component of the workshop is a series of lectures and hands-on sessions delivered by Google DeepMind experts, introducing recent advances in AI for research, including tools such as AlphaGenome and Google Antigravity. Participants will explore how these technologies are transforming bioinformatics research and education while developing the skills needed to critically evaluate AI-generated outputs, understand the strengths and limitations of emerging AI tools, and apply them responsibly in research and teaching.

What will this event cover?

• Practical approaches for teaching bioinformatics and genomics in diverse learning environments.
• Practical approaches for designing, organising, and delivering local training programmes.
• Best practices for mentoring future trainers, facilitators, and community champions.
• Techniques for developing collaborative projects and regional training initiatives.
• Methods for building and sustaining communities of practice that support peer learning and collaboration.
• Lectures from Google DeepMind experts introducing AI technologies for research, including AlphaGenome and Google Antigravity.
• Methods for critically evaluating AI tools, understanding their capabilities and limitations, and assessing AI-generated outputs.
• Strategies for integrating AI tools into the teaching and delivery of bioinformatics and genomics courses.

Who should attend this workshop?

Places are available through a competitive application process for bioinformatics and genomics professionals based in Asia.

Successful applicants will demonstrate:

• Experience in genomics sequence analysis.
• A clear motivation for attending and applying the learning outcomes of the GSA course.
• Experience in training, teaching, mentoring, or facilitation.
• A commitment to strengthening capacity within their institution or wider community.
• Evidence of leadership or community engagement activities (desirable).
• Institutional support through a professional reference.

Travel and accommodation bursaries will be provided to selected applicants

What will you achieve?

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

• Adapt genome sequence analysis training materials to meet the needs of diverse audiences, and learning environments.
• Apply effective teaching and facilitation techniques that promote active learning, engagement, and inclusive participation.
• Evaluate and integrate appropriate artificial intelligence tools and resources to enhance genome sequence analysis workflows and training.
• Design and implement training and community-building activities that strengthen local capacity and contribute to a sustainable genomics and bioinformatics Community of Practice.
• Develop action plans to expand training provision, foster collaboration, and support long-term genomics capacity development within their institutions and wider networks across Asia.

The five-day programme combines professional development, strategic planning and community engagement activities. Sessions will include:

• Teaching and facilitation workshops focused on active learning and learner engagement.
• Discussions on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in genomics.
• Project development and collaborative problem-solving exercises.
• Community-building and leadership development sessions.
• Regional showcases highlighting local training initiatives and success stories.
• Networking activities designed to strengthen connections between participants across Asia.
• Action planning sessions focused on expanding local training capacity and sustaining the Community of Practice.

Trainers and Organisers

Arporn (Koi) Wangwiwatsin
Khon Kaen University, Thailand 

Adaikalavan Ramasamy
Genome Institute of Singapore

Haslina Makmur
Cancer Reseach Malaysia

Carlo Lapid
Philippine Genome Center

Harsh Goel
All India Institute of Medical Sciences

Amarila Malik 
Universitas Indonesia

Budi Hartono
Universitas Indonesia

Alice Matimba
Wellcome Sanger Institute, UK

Monica Abrudan
Wellcome Sanger Institute, UK

Isabela Malta
Wellcome Sanger Institute

Karon Chappell
Wellcome Sanger Institute

Martin Aslett
Wellcome Sanger Institute

Prerequisites

Applicants must:

• Be based in Asia.
• Have experience in bioinformatics, genomics, computational biology, or a related field.
• Demonstrate an interest in training, mentorship, and community engagement.
• Have the support of their institution, evidenced by a recommendation from a supervisor, line manager, or head of department.
• Be available to participate fully in the workshop.

Preference will be given to applicants with experience in training delivery, community leadership, or scientific networking, and who can demonstrate how they will apply the outcomes of the workshop within their institution or wider community.

How to Apply

Attendance at the workshop is by invitation only. Eligible candidates will be contacted directly by email and invited to submit an application by 8 July 2026.

As part of your application, please describe:

• Your experience in bioinformatics, genomics, computational biology, or a related field.
• How participation in the workshop will support your professional goals.
• How you intend to apply or share the knowledge and connections gained through the workshop.

Institutional support

After applications are submitted, supervisors or institutional representatives may be contacted to confirm their support.

Need help?

If you encounter any problems with the application process, please contact us at courses@wellcomeconnectingscience.org.

Travel visas

You may require a visa depending on your citizenship. For further information, please visit the official e-Visa website for Indonesia: https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/

Confirmed attendees who require a letter to support a visa application should contact us at: courses@wellcomeconnectingscience.org

The event is free to attend for selected participants. Travel bursaries and accommodation will be provided.