Environmental DNA:

From conception to interpretation

Overview

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is reshaping the way ecological data is collected, analysed and interpreted. Techniques such as metabarcoding provide unprecedented levels of biotic coverage, including the detection of rare, elusive species and invasive species across a range of environmental matrices (e.g. soils, waters and air). The application of eDNA spans conservation biology, biomonitoring, fisheries management, pathogen surveillance, and ecological research. eDNA approaches are ethical, scalable and cost-effective, and can be designed to replace or complement traditional survey methods.

This intensive course teaches the eDNA metabarcoding workflow from experimental design and wet-lab preparation through to sequence data processing and ecological interpretation. Throughout the course, a strong emphasis is placed on quality control and best practices.

Learning from eDNA pioneers, attendees will gain a wealth of theoretical knowledge alongside practical, hands-on experience in sample collection, sequencing and bioinformatics. Topics include:

  • experimental design and sampling strategies for targeting specific taxonomic groups and environmental matrices

  • eDNA sample collection and extraction

  • QA/QC protocols for producing reproduceable and rigorous ecological data

  • sequencing using Oxford Nanopore’s MinION platform

  • bioinformatics and sequence data processing

  • ecological analysis and interpretation of sequenced data.

There will also be opportunities to discuss your own projects, interests and challenges, while building valuable connections with eDNA researchers and practitioners.

Learn from pioneers and experts in the field

The course is convened by Professor Anthony Chariton (Macquarie University) and led by Dr Frederic Boyer (University of Grenoble-Alps, France); Professor Michael Bunce (Minderoo Foundation); and Professor Eric Coissac (University of Grenoble-Alps, France). This year’s special online guest is the internationally renowned and foremost figure in eDNA, Dr Pierre Taberlet (University of Grenoble-Alps). Taberlet, Coissac, Boyer and Chariton have run eDNA courses together (metabarcoding.org) around the world for over 14 years. Additional teachers include Dr Christine Chivas, (iDNA expert, Macquarie University) and Dr Jessica O'Hare (population geneticist, Macquarie University). 

Who is the course for?

This micro-credential course is designed for professionals and researchers who want to use, understand, apply or upscale their skills in eDNA and metabarcoding. This includes: environmental consultants, government scientists, industry, NGOs, conservation practitioners, fisheries and aquatic scientists, terrestrial ecologists and researchers.

The course is also highly relevant to those who are considering or required to use, interpret, or review studies that include eDNA-derived data. In such cases, upon completion of this course, you will have:

·       a clearer understanding of what eDNA can and can’t do

·       the knowledge to ensure that any outsourced sampling, sequencing and bioinformatics is performed in a manner that suits your specific requirements

·       the capacity to assess and review eDNA data for relevance, quality, reproducibility and reliability.

No experience in sequencing, bioinformatics or R is required. For those new to unix, we will provide you with a quick, free and easy-to-follow online course to get you up to speed. All practicals are performed in small groups, so we will assist you through every step. We have a wealth of experience in training people in fundamental bioinformatics and data analysis in a warm, supportive and productive environment.  

Upon completion, you will receive digital certification of this Macquarie University micro-credential course.

Dates, location and cost

The course will run from 3–6 November 2026 at Macquarie University, Sydney. Morning tea and lunch are provided.

Cost $2,970 (including GST).

Registration will be opening late September, 2026. Details to follow shortly.

For more information please contact anthony.chariton@mq.edu.au