Surrey, BC – The Applied Genomics Centre (AGC) at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU), in collaboration with the BC Centre for Agritech Innovation (BCCAI), will be hosting a three-day molecular biology and genomics workshop from March 20 to March 27, 2025. This event, titled “Molecular Biology and Genomics Workshop – qPCR in Agriculture,” aims to provide participants with an in-depth understanding of genomic tools in agriculture and hands-on experience with quantitative PCR (qPCR), a powerful technique for early disease detection, improved animal health, and sustainable farming practices.
Exploring qPCR for Agricultural Innovation
As the agricultural sector embraces genomic technology, qPCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction) is becoming an essential tool for detecting plant and animal diseases, improving crop yields, and reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. This workshop will equip attendees with knowledge and practical experience in using qPCR for real-world agricultural applications, helping professionals and researchers enhance agriculture sustainability in British Columbia.
Workshop Structure and Schedule
The event will consist of two online seminars and one hands-on lab training session at KPU’s Surrey campus.
Seminar 1: Molecular Biology and the Power of Genomics in Agriculture
- Date & Time: Thursday, March 20 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM PDT
- Location: Online via Microsoft Teams (link sent 24 hours before the event)
- Instructor: Dr. Paul Adams, Director of the Applied Genomics Centre
This seminar will introduce the role of molecular biology and genomics in agriculture, highlighting cutting-edge technologies that are revolutionizing the industry.
Hands-On Training: Performing qPCR in the Lab
- Date & Location:
- Monday, March 24 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (KPU, Spruce, Room 202, Surrey, BC)
- Monday, March 24 | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM (KPU, Spruce, Room 202, Surrey, BC)
- Wednesday, March 26 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (KPU, Spruce, Room 114, Surrey, BC)
- Instructors: Lyndsey Baillie, MSc, Research Coordinator, and Taylor Chin, BSc, Research Technician
Participants will get practical training in conducting qPCR experiments, learning how to set up reactions, interpret results, and troubleshoot common issues.
Seminar 2: Data Analysis – Understanding and Interpreting qPCR Results
- Date & Time: Thursday, March 27 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PDT
- Location: Online via Microsoft Teams (link sent 24 hours before the event)
- Instructor: Erick Samera, BSc (Hons), Bioinformatician at the Applied Genomics Centre
This session will focus on data analysis techniques used in qPCR applications, enabling participants to extract meaningful insights from their experimental results.
What Attendees Will Gain from This Workshop
- Molecular Biology Knowledge: Learn the fundamentals of genomics in agriculture.
- Hands-On Experience with qPCR: Gain practical skills in qPCR experiments and analysis.
- Understanding of Agritech Solutions: Discover how genomic technologies are shaping the future of farming and food production.
- Data Interpretation Skills: Learn how to analyze and interpret qPCR data effectively.
Event Details & Registration
- Dates: March 20 – March 27, 2025
- Location: Kwantlen Polytechnic University, 12666 72 Avenue, Surrey, BC
- Refund Policy: Refunds available up to 7 days before the event (Eventbrite fees are non-refundable).
- Registration: Choose preferred in-lab training slots when signing up.
This workshop is ideal for students, researchers, and professionals in agritech, biotechnology, and life sciences, offering a comprehensive learning experience in molecular biology and genomics applications for agriculture.
