Viral Whole Genome Sequencing and Bioinformatics Training in Stockholm
From 2–5 November 2026, the Public Health Agency of Sweden hosted an EURL-PH-ERZV training course on viral WGS and bioinformatics. Six participants from laboratories in Greece, Cyprus, Estonia, the Czech Republic, Slovenia and Slovakia gathered in Stockholm for four days of hands-on training and knowledge exchange.
The course, "Viral Whole Genome Sequencing & Bioinformatics using Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT)", combined theoretical sessions with practical laboratory work and bioinformatics exercises. Participants worked with ONT sequencing workflows and explored how to process and analyse sequencing data using tools such as Docker and Nextflow.
Throughout the training, participants had the opportunity to develop their practical skills, discuss technical challenges and share experiences and approaches from their own laboratories.
The course also provided an opportunity to build connections between laboratories and encourage continued collaboration and knowledge exchange across Europe.
The training was organised by EURL-PH-ERZV at the Public Health Agency of Sweden, with colleagues from the Laboratory Development and Technology Transfer Unit leading the practical ONT sequencing and bioinformatic sessions.
A big thank you to all trainers for their excellent work and to the participants for their enthusiasm, engagement and contributions throughout the week!
Participants and trainers at the viral WGS and ONT training in Stockholm. Photo: Vincent von Sydow, Public Health Agency of Sweden.
Hands-on bioinformatics training during the course. Photo: Vincent von Sydow, Public Health Agency of Sweden.
