Srinagar, Oct 30: To equip researchers with the knowledge and skills required for proficient gene expression analysis using RNA-Seq technology, the Department of Botany, Kashmir University (KU) Monday inaugurated a three-day workshop on ‘RNA-Seq Hands-on Workshop – Library Preparation and Introduction to Data Analysis Using R’ here.
The workshop aims to covers a broad spectrum of topics such as, the fundamentals of RNA-Seq, experimental design, technology and platforms, data quality control, hands-on data analysis, bioinformatics tools and software, data visualisation and functional analysis. The goal is to empower participants to efficiently plan, execute, and analyse RNA-Seq experiments for their research projects, be it in genomics, molecular biology or other biological disciplines.
Dean Research, KU, Prof Irshad Ahmad Nawchoo; Prof Bibha Choudhary from the Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology (IBAB), Bangaluru; Officiating Head, Department of Botany, KU and Convenor of the workshop, Prof Aijaz Ahmad Wani and Professor, Department of Botany, KU, Prof Zafar Ahmad Reshi besides faculty members, research scholars and students were present at the inaugural ceremony.
The workshop brings together a team of renowned resource persons, including Prof Bibha Choudhary and her team of postdocs and PhD students from IBAB, Bengaluru, Dr Gaurav Sharma from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Hyderabad and Dr Wajid Waheed Bhat from Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu.
During the inaugural session, Dean Research, KU, Prof Irshad Ahmad Nawchoo emphasised the importance of such workshops, acknowledging their role in providing practical experience in RNA sequencing and data analysis, essential for researchers and students in the field.
Officiating Head, Department of Botany and Convenor of the workshop, Prof Aijaz Ahmad Wani, shared the department’s rich history and its contributions to the fields of bioinformatics and genomics.
Professor at the Department of Botany, KU, Prof Zafar Ahmad Reshi underscored the significance of staying updated with the latest advancements in bioinformatics and using state-of-the-art instruments, highlighting the valuable exposure that workshops provide.
SERB (Science and Engineering Research Board) research scientist, Department of Botany, KU and Organising Secretary of the workshop, Dr Shahzad Ahmad Pandith highlighted the objectives of the workshop offering a comprehensive understanding of RNA-Seq to participants, combining theory with hands-on practice to enhance their research capabilities.
The workshop promises to be an enriching experience, with practical exercises covering RNA extraction, library preparation, and data analysis, ensuring that participants leave with the skills and knowledge to harness the power of RNA-Seq in their research endeavours.
Research Scholar, Department of Botany, Dr Mohd Ishfaq Khan proposed the formal vote of thanks, expressing gratitude for the collective effort gone into making the workshop possible.
