Today, thanks to the advances in DNA sequencing technology, we can acquire information about our genome within days at low costs. While the digital revolution is recognised at every level of our society, the bio-molecular revolution however, including their current paradigm shifts, draws only a small number of groups in our society.

Facing this bio-molecular revolution an understanding of DNA and genomics is important. Based on the introductory courses, Biomolecular Strategies by Renee Schroeder and Tanja Gesell, the course Genomic Awareness aims to gain deeper knowledge about projects, topics and technologies in Genomics.

The focus of this semester will be on the next-generation sequencing (NGS) practice and applications. NGS has revolutionised genomic research. In the corresponding course Statistics and Next Generation Sequencing by Tanja Gesell and Elin Axelsson-Ekker of the science and technology module, students will be able to process an authentic NGS-dataset of a human neuronal cell culture differentiation experiment.

The corresponding course Genomic Awareness offers additional theoretical and experimental background information through access to the current literature in Genomics, scientific talks and a symposium, as well as the opportunity to visit different labs and facilities at the Vienna Biocenter with practical hints and inspiring examples from human cell-cultures to cerebral organoids and different model organism and, last but not least, discussions with guest lectures from different fields engaging in open research topics. The course aims to acquire knowledge about a basic understanding of genomic research in order to open up cross-disciplinary discussions and approaches regarding genomic awareness in science, art, and society today.

The grade will depend on the quality and clarity of presentations and the contributions to the discussions during the semester.

The following dates of winter term will be developed after the first meetings.