Microbial Genomics: DNA Sequencing Basics
Sorry you missed this course in 2026. Register your interest below for 2027: Explore the theory of DNA sequencing and the revolutionary role it can play in public health microbiology and epidemiology.
$990 AUD (inc GST)
What you will learn
Gain contemporary skills and knowledge for your job now.
Microbial genomics is revolutionising clinical and public health responses to communicable diseases. Generating high-quality DNA sequence data is a vital part of this process.
This micro-credential is ideal for health professionals seeking a fundamental understanding of the science behind DNA sequencing, best-practice approaches to generating sequence data and how it can help address the public health challenges of our times.
This course is co-designed and delivered in partnership with the Doherty Institute.
Explore the fundamental science of DNA sequencing
Grasp the theory underpinning DNA sequencing and different sequencing approaches (including whole-genome, amplicon, and metagenomics). Review the pros and cons of sequencing when applied to different scenarios.
Discover best-practice DNA sequencing approaches
Understand common DNA extraction, library preparation and sequencing methods. Explore how to mix-and-match methods to create laboratory workflows and hear from experts on their experiences with the implementation and accreditation of next-generation sequencing.
Understand quality control approaches
Investigate different quality control parameters that should be considered when undertaking DNA sequencing and reviewing data outputs. Gain practical experience in assessing data quality, using various approaches including the online genomics platform Galaxy.
Analyse pathogen genomic DNA sequence data
Drawing on your new knowledge, you'll independently examine sequence datasets, evaluating the quality of the data and suitability of the methods used to generate the data for the described scenarios.
Who you will learn from
Learn from skilled academics and professional experts who will share invaluable knowledge you can use in your job.
Professor Tim Stinear
Scientific Director of the Doherty Applied Microbial Genomics research centre
Tim is a molecular microbiologist and research-teaching academic. He leads a team of scientists focused on understanding how certain types of bacteria spread and cause disease. In addition, he is the Scientific Director of the Doherty Applied Microbial Genomics research centre and a National Health and Medical Research Council Senior Fellow.
Dr Sarah Baines
Research Fellow, Centre for Pathogen Genomics, University of Melbourne at the Doherty Institute
Sarah is an early career researcher specialising in microbiology and genomics, as applied to understanding the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). For her PhD, she investigated the population and functional genomics of drug-resistant lineages of Staphylococcus aureus. She continues to research S. aureus population dynamics, more recently expanding to other bacterial pathogens of public health interest to understand complex mechanisms of AMR.
Hasini Walpola
Genomics Training Specialist
Hasini has a background working in molecular diagnostics, microbial sequencing and automation of NGS workflows. She currently works as a scientist for the Centre for Pathogen Genomics, where she leads genomics training and participates in capacity-building activities throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
What people are saying
Hear how micro-credentials have helped advance careers and why these skills matter to your industry.
The best aspects were the practical focus on sequencing workflows, quality control, and real-world applications like antimicrobial resistance. The step-by-step structure made complex topics easier to follow, and the interactive activities reinforce learning.
— Micro-credential learner, April 2025
I now better understand sequencing workflows and quality control, so I can help implement automated DNA extraction and QC steps to ensure high-quality bacterial genome data—especially useful in AMR surveillance projects.
— Micro-credential learner, April 2025
More from this series
Take multiple courses to deepen your knowledge or stack towards a full degree.
The Applied Pathogen Genomics series
This series is designed for infectious diseases professionals seeking practical skills in the groundbreaking areas of pathogen genomics and bioinformatics. Taught by leading genomics experts, it will equip you with the capacity to analyse and use genomic data in your own practice.
Explore more from the Applied Pathogen Genomics series:
- Microbial Genomics: Bioinformatic Analysis Basics (Micro-credential)
Fees
For individuals
To take Microbial Genomics: DNA Sequencing Basics as a stand-alone micro-credential, you'll pay the normal course price.
$990 AUD (inc GST)
Please contact Student Support to discuss discounts and payment options for University of Melbourne staff or alumni, or to pay by invoice.
For teams
If you have three or more team members who are keen to upskill with Microbial Genomics: DNA Sequencing Basics, get in touch to discuss pricing. For large groups, we can also deliver and contextualise this course exclusively for your organisation.
Dates
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Course details
Want to know more about micro-credentials? See our Frequently Asked Questions
This course is designed for infectious diseases professionals seeking a fundamental understanding of DNA sequencing and practical skills in cutting-edge pathogen genomics.
It's ideal for infectious diseases physicians, medical registrars, medical microbiologists, epidemiologists, public health physicians, laboratory scientists, as well as other health professionals.
There are no eligibility requirements.
This course is delivered in partnership with the Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory and Doherty Applied Microbial Genomics research centre.
This unique industry alignment means you can be confident your learning is contemporary and based on real-world industry needs.
By the end of this course, you'll be able to:
- Examine the theory of DNA sequencing and evaluate application of different sequencing approaches, assessing the pros and cons of each when applied to different scenarios in public health and clinical microbiology.
- Summarise common DNA extraction and library preparation methods and design genomic sequencing workflows for diverse samples and scenarios.
- Describe the theory and bioinformatic processes behind quality control of genomic sequence data from different pathogens and establish practical competency in implementing quality control of these datasets.
This course runs over four weeks, including self-directed learning, guided learning, and two weeks to complete assessment tasks.
Your total time commitment is approximately 40 hours, which includes:
- 9 hours online lectures
- 5 hours self-directed learning
- 6 hours discussion groups
- 4 hours instructor led practical activity
- 16 hours assessment tasks.
Assessment:
- Application of DNA sequencing technologies and approaches to diverse scenarios (40%)
- Independent analysis of pathogen genomic DNA sequence data (60%)
Microbial Genomics: DNA Sequencing Basics can be taken as a stand-alone course or complemented with any other micro-credential in the Applied Pathogen Genomics series to deepen your knowledge and skills.
The series includes:
- Microbial Genomics: DNA Sequencing Basics
- Microbial Genomics: Bioinformatic Analysis Basics
- Microbial Genomics: Applications for Public Health
- Microbial Genomics: Applications for Clinical Sciences.
It is recommended you complete this micro-credential as the first in the series, then proceed to Microbial Genomics: Bioinformatic Analysis Basics, and then complete the rest in the series.
This course is predominantly self-directed learning, with opportunities to engage with your cohort and field experts, providing both flexibility and support.
You’ll work through written and recorded materials at your own pace, participate in group discussions, and receive valuable guidance and feedback from your course facilitators.
You’ll also complete practical activities, including using the online genomics platform Galaxy, to begin applying your knowledge of DNA sequencing.