Global Health Sequencing, Bioinformatics and Genomic Epidemiology

Next generation sequencing (NGS) has improved public health emergency response to current and emerging infectious diseases. Such high-resolution data can determine transmission models, detect vaccine escape and genomic changes that cause increased virulence or impact clinical outcomes. This information can be leveraged for public health action, such as food recalls, changes in vaccine strategies, public health communication and improving patient outcomes. 

NGS and the related fields of bioinformatics and genomic epidemiology, which analyze NGS data, are growing as technology expands and becomes more accessible.

APHL works with countries and laboratories to build their capacity to conduct sequencing, quality management, bioinformatics and genomic epidemiology activities. We develop and optimize protocols and laboratory procedures, and provide support, training and guidance on how to produce actionable genomic data for public health decision-making. 

Read more about our work:

• Gap analysis to determine readiness for NGS, or resources needed to scale up existing NGS programs
• Assistance with NGS equipment, reagent, and supply decision-making and procurement
• Building bioinformatics infrastructure and sequence data management practices
• Workforce development via training (in person or virtual; for laboratory or bioinformatics)
• Genomic epidemiology training
• Onboarding of new NGS platforms and supplemental or automated equipment
• Technical assistance for partners and members
• Twinning and mentorship programs

• Wet lab, bioinformatics, and genomic epidemiology
• Extended support via help desk, office hours, mentorship, and communities of practice
• Pathogen-agnostic techniques
• Metagenomics and pathogen discovery
• Wastewater-based surveillance
• Train the trainer sessions