Naturalis Training Event

From 21 to 23 May 2025, the Naturalis Biodiversity Center in Leiden, the Netherlands, hosted a BGE training event focused on biodiversity genomics. The programme combined theoretical lectures with hands-on sessions, addressing both the DNA barcoding (iBOL) and reference genome (ERGA) components of the project.

The first day featured theoretical lectures attended by 22 participants, while the second day offered laboratory training and data analysis sessions for 18 participants. Practical components included DNA extraction, quantification, PCR, and visualization using Qubit fluorometers, gel electrophoresis systems, and the Agilent TapeStation. An Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) MinION device was also used, with new flow cells and ligation kits procured for the training.

Participants were primarily PhD students and postdoctoral researchers from Naturalis and Dutch institutions such as Leiden University, selected through a targeted registration process launched one month prior to the event. Applicants provided information on institutional affiliation, academic position, and prior molecular biology experience.

During the hands-on sessions, participants processed biological samples using the Naturalis ONT DNA-barcoding pipeline and learned to analyze barcode data for submission to BOLD. They also explored the basics of whole genome sequencing data processing using Galaxy and were introduced to FAIR data management principles. The training provided a full workflow overview, from experimental design to data interpretation.