Pathogen Genomics: A New Era in Global Health Surveillance and Strategy (FutureLearn)

Discover tools and resources to strengthen pathogen surveillance

Pathogen genomics is a powerful tool for understanding and managing infectious diseases. This approach can be decisive when monitoring pathogens of public health relevance.

Learn how genomic approaches could help tackle infectious diseases

Guided by an interdisciplinary team of specialists, you’ll learn how genomics has been used to investigate, monitor, and control infectious diseases.

You’ll cover key concepts in epidemiology and pathogen genomics, seeing how these apply to infectious disease surveillance and global health.

Discuss strategies for communicating genomic data to inform public health actions

When effectively interpreted and disseminated, scientific evidence can play a major role in shaping public health decisions and actions.

You’ll compare and critique strategies for communicating genomic data in an ethical and efficient way.

Harness scientific evidence to prepare for future global health threats

The COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in a new era in pathogen surveillance. You’ll discuss how evidence from previous public health emergencies can be leveraged to prevent and control new crises.

By the end of the course, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of genomic surveillance approaches and technologies. With this knowledge, you’ll be equipped to respond to future global health threats.

Syllabus

Week 1: Introduction to genomics surveillance

Week 2: Pathogen genomics for global health

Week 3: Communicating genomics surveillance with impact

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...

- Describe basic concepts of epidemiology and pathogen genomics

- Identify key elements and tools to support a successful pathogen surveillance

- Interpret and discuss scientific evidence to inform the public health system

- Critique approaches used in global health surveillance

- Describe principles and procedures for responsible public communication of pathogen genomics information

Who is the course for?

This course is designed for anyone interested in how pathogen genomics can enhance our understanding of infectious diseases, and inform public health policies.