Second AUTH Training Event

From 12 to 13 February 2025, the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh) hosted a BGE training event in Thessaloniki, focusing on DNA barcoding and applied genomics. The event was held across two venues: the Centre for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI) in Thermi and the School of Forestry and Natural Environment on the AUTh campus in Finikas.

The two-day programme offered a mix of theoretical input and hands-on training, addressing both laboratory and bioinformatics workflows. Day 1 focused on DNA barcoding, covering sampling protocols, DNA extraction, library preparation, and sequencing with Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT MinION). Participants also received training in data analysis and submission to public repositories such as BOLD.

Day 2 shifted to applied genomics and data management. Sessions included an introduction to high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructure, best practices for data archiving and version control, and workflow automation using Snakemake. The programme concluded with a session on the use of reference genomes in species conservation and trait analysis.

A total of 20 participants attended, selected through an application process to ensure a balance of backgrounds and experience. Attendees came from eight institutions across Greece, including AUTh, the International Hellenic University, University of Thessaly, Aegean University, Agricultural University of Athens, University of Patras, the Goulandris Natural History Museum, and the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research. Participants included postgraduate students, early-career researchers, and technical staff from universities, research institutes, and museums.

To support collaborative learning, participants were divided into five working groups based on their prior experience in DNA barcoding, bioinformatics, and data submission. This structure helped balance the level of support across both wet lab and computational modules.