Genomic Data Science Community Network

The Genomic Data Science Community Network (GDSCN) works towards a vision where researchers, educators, and students from diverse backgrounds are able to fully participate in genomic data science research.

Learn more in our paper "Diversifying the Genomic Data Science Research Community": https://genome.cshlp.org/content/early/2022/07/18/gr.276496.121.

Mission

To broaden the spectrum of diverse institutions active in bioinformatics and genomic data science, we seek partnerships with educators and researchers at:

  • Community Colleges (CCs),

  • Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs),

  • Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs), and

  • Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs).

The GDSCN currently spans 18 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia.

Cloud-based resources such as the NHGRI Analysis, Visualization, and Informatics Lab-space (AnVIL) provide genomic data access, computing, and training, serving as a catalyst for bringing together students, educators, and researchers at both resource-rich institutions and institutions not traditionally engaged in genomics research. We envision the GDSCN will bring together the community that will guide and advocate for high-throughput tools and resources necessary to implement genomics in data science at their institutions.

Current Activities

We have been working to develop three main products:

Short lab modules adapted from existing contributed material

A MOOC-style teacher's guide

Five scientific questions suitable for future research by students

Communication between students, educators, and scientists is encouraged by including exercises that leverage the open, AnVIL help forum (help.anvilproject.org). Utilizing community forums allows scientists at research universities to interact with and support students with technical, scientific, and mentorship questions.

This initial stage concluded in August 2022. The expansion stage began in September 2022.

Events

Photograph from the Fifth GDSCN Symposium, some members are presenting while the Network is seated around a table in a conference room.

Kickoff Meeting

In March 2021, educators from the community network and organizers discussed bioinformatic resources, datasets, tools and educator support needed.

Paper Check-In

Next in April 2021, GDSCN members met to collaboratively draft a white paper on bringing genomic data science to underrepresented academic communities.

Second Symposium

Then in May 2021, the GDSCN continued drafting the white paper and heard a presentation on the NHGRI AnVIL.

Third Symposium

In November 2021, the Network heard about the Open Case Studies project, the first curricula adapted for the Network, and shared final ideas as we move to complete the white paper.

Fourth Symposium

In April 2022, we shared new educational content available, the Network explored ideas for the next directions to pursue, and NIH guest speakers described their exciting work and opportunities for diversifying data science education and research.

Fifth Symposium

Our first in-person Symposium was held in August 2022, discussing ideas for the expansion of the GDSCN and hearing from the three new Working Groups on their activities.

Future Directions

Curriculum Development

Core Educational Videos

Open Case Study Pilots

Workshops and Seminars

Get Involved

If you're interested in our Network, visit our Contact Us page to get in touch!