This is a DSCRP course and places are highly limited. If you are unable to attend, please de-register (or email graduateschool@uq.edu.au if you are unable to do so). An unexplained absence could result in all your future DSCRP registrations becoming Waitlisted.

This hands-on session offers a beginner-friendly introduction to metagenomic analysis using the MOTHUR tool within the Galaxy platform. Participants will learn the fundamentals of metagenomics, including how it is used to study microbial community composition, diversity, and functional potential from sequencing data. The workshop will guide attendees through key analysis steps such as quality control of raw reads, OTU clustering, taxonomic classification, and diversity analysis—all within Galaxy’s user-friendly, web-based interface. Designed for those with no prior bioinformatics or coding experience, this session provides both foundational concepts and practical skills to help researchers confidently analyse metagenomic data in their own work. 

Who should attend

This workshop is designed for students and researchers in the life sciences who are already familiar with the Galaxy platform and want to expand their skills in metagenomic data analysis. It is ideal for those working in microbiology, microbial ecology, environmental genomics, or related fields who wish to enhance their bioinformatics expertise through hands-on practice with metagenomic workflows. Prior experience with Galaxy is recommended, allowing the session to focus on advanced metagenomic techniques, including quality control, OTU/ASV clustering, taxonomic profiling, functional annotation, and diversity analysis using sequencing datasets.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this workshop, participants will:

  • Gain an understanding of metagenomic analysis using Galaxy Australia
  • Become familiar with the metagenomic tools on Galaxy platform 

Workshop Topics 

  • Quality Control of metagenomic data
  • Filter and classify metagenomic data
  • Diversity analysis
  • Visualization 

By registering, you are consenting to the release of your name and email address to DSCRP for attendance purposes. Full attendance is expected.

About Bioinformatics and genomics

Useful links

  • Hacky Hour (supported by RCC, QCIF, IMB and wonderful volunteer helpers!): RCC runs consultations every Tuesday at Cafe Nano. Come and ask IT questions such as: getting started with Python and R, stats, machine learning, bio-image, software tools, research data management (RDM), how to access high performance computing, cloud data storage and tools for data cleaning and data visualisation. Bring your project's IT problems or come along as a helper! Very occasionally Hacky Hour may not run; follow us on Twitter (@HackyHourStLuc​) to get the latest announcements. Aside from the usual IT research questions, 
    • First Tuesday of the monthBioinformatics Hacky Hour, ask bioinformatics analysis, software and pipeline questions
    • Last Tuesday of the monthBioLab Hacky Hour, ask about experimental design and technical sample processing questions to get started in the lab