Decoding Marine Life with Bioinformatics
Discover the hidden microbial world of marine algae!
Join us in Peniche, Portugal, for a hands-on journey into marine biodiversity, molecular biology and bioinformatics. Explore coastal ecosystems, work with real biological samples and experience cutting-edge portable DNA sequencing technology to uncover the diversity of Ulva and its associated bacterial communities. Connect with students and researchers from partner universities, develop practical laboratory and data analysis skills, and discover new perspectives on marine biotechnology and scientific research.
Decoding Marine Life with Bioinformatics is a Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) that brings together students and staff from partner universities to explore marine biodiversity, molecular biotechnology and bioinformatics through a hands-on research experience. Focusing on green macroalgae of the genus Ulva and their associated bacterial communities along the coast of Peniche, Portugal, participants will engage in coastal fieldwork, morphological observation, DNA extraction, PCR amplification and portable DNA sequencing using Oxford Nanopore Technologies.
They will analyse DNA sequences using bioinformatics tools to investigate species diversity, support taxonomic identification and characterise associated bacterial communities. Combining fieldwork, laboratory experimentation and computational analysis, the programme develops practical scientific skills, critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration, while providing insights into marine ecosystems and opportunities for future research in marine biotechnology.
Through a combination of online learning and face-to-face activities, participants will experience the complete research workflow, from coastal sampling to molecular identification, DNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. The programme promotes hands-on learning, international collaboration, critical thinking and the development of advanced scientific and digital skills.
By connecting marine ecology with molecular biotechnology and computational approaches, participants will gain valuable experience in contemporary biodiversity research and explore the potential of marine organisms and their associated microbiomes for future scientific and biotechnological applications. The programme also provides opportunities to exchange knowledge, build international networks and identify avenues for future collaborative research.
25th of January 2027 to 19th of February 2027
English
To be defined by each higher education institution. Generally, most students will have this BIP certified in their diploma supplement, as a minimal condition
Eligible participants are undergraduate, Master’s and PhD students enrolled at any RUN-EU member institution, with a background in biology or a related field and previous laboratory experience. Prior experience in molecular biology and/or bioinformatics is desirable, although not mandatory. Participants should have a strong interest in marine biodiversity, molecular biotechnology and the application of bioinformatics tools to biological research.
Please contact your International Relations Office at you home HEI.
Programme at a glance
09:00–13:00
Welcome & Sample Presentation
Welcome session, introduction to the course and presentation of the biological samples.
13:00–14:20
Lunch break
14:30–17:30
Sample Preparation & Preliminary Characterisation
Sample washing, identification and visual characterisation of the collected macroalgae.
Evening
Welcome Dinner
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Tuesday — DNA Extraction & Sequencing Preparation
09:00–13:00
Workshop — DNA Extraction and Quality Assessment
DNA extraction, visualization and quantification of DNA extracts.
13:00–14:20
Lunch break
14:30–17:30
Workshop — Nanopore Sequencing
Introduction to the sequencing kit, preparation of sequencing materials and sample loading onto the sequencer.
________________________________________
Wednesday — Sequencing & Social Activity
09:00–13:00
Nanopore Sequencing
Sequencing data collection and completion of the sequencing process.
13:00–14:20
Lunch break
14:30–17:30
Social Event — Visit to Lourinhã
Social and cultural visit to Lourinhã.
________________________________________
Thursday — Bioinformatics & Data Analysis
09:00–13:00
Workshop — Sequencing Data Analysis
Analysis and interpretation of sequencing results, with discussion and feedback from experts.
13:00–14:20
Lunch break
14:30–17:30
Workshop — Sequencing Data Analysis (continued)
Further analysis and interpretation of sequencing results, discussion of findings and exchange of perspectives with experts.
________________________________________
Friday — Course Closing & Field Experience
09:00–13:00
Course Closing Session
Final reflections, conclusions and evaluation of the course.
Field Trip (optional)
Possible field visit, subject to availability and weather conditions.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme, learners will be able to:
Participants will be able to critically assess the taxonomic complexity of Ulva and recognise the limitations of morphology-based identification, through the examination of morphological variability and cryptic diversity within the genus.
Participants will be able to select and justify appropriate DNA barcode markers for reliable species identification in green algae, by comparing marker resolution, amplification success and suitability for species-level identification.
Participants will be able to independently perform the main steps of a molecular identification workflow, from sample preparation to sequencing preparation, by applying appropriate laboratory techniques and good molecular biology practices.
Participants will be able to assess sequence and alignment quality and identify potential sources of error that may compromise downstream analyses, to ensure the reliability and suitability of molecular data for downstream analyses.
Participants will be able to critically interpret molecular identification results using public databases, accounting for the limitations and reliability of reference sequences, by critically evaluating sequence similarity, reference data quality and taxonomic reliability.
Participants will be able to communicate molecular identification findings through a scientific abstract and final report, integrating morphological, molecular and bioinformatic evidence, by communicating the results, methods and limitations of the investigation in a clear and scientifically rigorous manner.
Selection criteria
Candidates will be assessed based on the information provided in their application, including their academic background, previous laboratory experience and motivation to participate in the programme. Particular consideration will be given to their knowledge of biology and any previous experience in molecular biology techniques and/or bioinformatics. Applicants will also be assessed on their interest in marine biodiversity, their willingness to engage in practical research activities and their ability to contribute to collaborative work in an international learning environment. Priority will be given to candidates whose background and learning objectives align most closely with the programme’s scientific and educational aims.
Involved organisations and persons
Geoparque
- Miguel Silva (Regional Stakeholder)
Howest University of Applied Sciences
Partner Organisation- Mathias Verbeke (Instructor)
- Noor Samyn (Instructor)
- Paco Hulpiau (Instructor)
Technological University of the Shannon
Partner OrganisationUniversity of Leiria and Oeste
Lead Organisation- Maria Sampaio (Lead Instructor)
- Verónica Felício (Instructor)
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them. Grant Agreement Number: 101124674
