Modernizing biology curricula by developing accessible genomic data science miniCUREs for the AnVIL platform - Project Summary/Abstract We propose to develop two short-format, introductory, modular, Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (miniCUREs), and deliver this computational genomics and data science (CGDS) curriculum to a broad cross-section of undergraduate students. Our RNA-seq miniCURE has been taken by over 500 students across two institutions and provides a robust mechanism to bring computational research experiences to first year undergraduates nationwide. Building upon our existing RNA-seq miniCURE we plan to enrich and expand its content by introducing new datasets and integrating the materials onto the NHGRI Genomic Data Science Analysis, Visualization, and Informatics Lab-Space, or AnVIL. In parallel, we will develop a new miniCURE that analyzes the impact of human gut microbiome manipulation and its impact on the host. Our success will introduce expertise for faculty/instructors and broaden the exposure and use of CGDS material by currently underserved students at community colleges, minority serving institutions, tribal colleges, and under- resourced institutions. Specifically, we will: 1) Enhance the RNA-seq miniCURE with the AnVIL platform, 2) Develop an AnVIL-based human microbiome metagenomics miniCURE, and 3) Broaden miniCURE adoption across institutions. The modular miniCURE materials can be delivered in a range of formats from in-person or hybrid short courses, asynchronously, and the potential for massive online open courses. All framework, content, and pedagogy developed by our team will be open source and made accessible to the broadest possible audience by leveraging our existing expertise in online and scalable in-person education and bioinformatics platforms. Together, dissemination of these AnVIL miniCUREs will enable more diverse educational institutions to provide their students with hands-on research experiences in genomics, enhancing computational skills, and preparing the next generation of genomics researchers and professionals.
