The BIT 477/577 Metagenomics course aims to raise awareness of the methods for studying complex microbial populations that surround us, including theory, applications, limitations, and health and legal implications. The interdisciplinary nature of metagenomic approaches requires teams to draw from multiple perspectives, ideas, and experiences to take full advantage of the molecular biology tools available in the era of high-throughput sequencing. Thus, this course will highlight the contributions of diverse authors and explore how biased study design results in skewed findings that disproportionately impact vulnerable populations. For example, while high-throughput sequencing technologies exist, not all have access to them! See https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4911431/.
Our class embodies a microcosm of diversity… a metagenome. Respect of diverse opinions, active listening, acknowledgment of bias, and discussion of difficult but essential topics such as racial bias in metagenomic studies and lack of representation of marginalized populations will be critical foundations of our conversations. In alignment with an initiative by the Department of Biological Sciences Diversity and Inclusion Committee, a course objective (CO) has been designed for the BIT 477/577 Metagenomics course to intentionally emphasize and analyze diversity and equity in the area of high-throughput discovery.
CO 5. Interpret data and identify limitations related to metagenomic surveys.
Together, we will address diversity and practice our scientific communication skills to create valuable public resources that promote awareness and broad accessibility of metagenomics education tools and resources. I look forward to listening and learning from the perspectives and experience you bring to our community.
Video link: https://youtu.be/rhwBI3Lda5Y (3:51 min)
Audio file link