Introduction 

We call for participation in our Bioinformatics Grand Challenge Eduthon, as part of the program of the International Colloquium on Bioinformatics Learning, Education and Training (iCOBLET) 2024, which will be held from 20th – 21st November 2024 at the University of Doha for Science and Technology, Qatar. The iCOBLET2024 is organized in collaboration with the Global Organisation for Bioinformatics Learning, Education and Training (GOBLET) (https://www.mygoblet.org). 

Background  

Bioinformatics is almost 50 years old and it has yet to reach its full potential. The field has evolved in parallel to advances in computing and basic sciences. For academicians, it has always remained a challenge to use the best methods and pedagogy to educate and train the upcoming generation of bioinformaticians and life scientists. 

The Bioinformatics Grand Challenge Eduthon is a unique opportunity to propose solutions for the grand challenges facing bioinformatics education and training and help chart the path for a sustainable future1

  • Who can join? 

Simply, anyone with an interest in proposing solutions to bioinformatics education grand challenges. 

How does it work? 

  • The team 

Ideally you need to form a team of 3-5 members* and register. You decide who will be part of your team, it could comprise students, academicians, and/or someone from the industry. Although we highly recommend forming a team, of at least 3 people* we do recognize that it can sometimes be difficult, as a result, teams of 2 members or solo applications will also be considered

Our scientific committee comprised of bioinformatics experts will evaluate your eligibility based on a set of answers to questions in the registration form

  • The process 
  1. The Eduthon Solution Presentations will take place during the second day of the iCOBLET2024 event. 
  1. The Eduthon will adopt a problem-based learning (PBL) format. 
  1. In your registration form, please indicate the bioinformatics grand challenge area of interest1. Due to time limitations, please only select ONE category per team.  
  1. The teams are invited to adhere to the following Timelines.
     
  2. Present your solution in the most innovative way on the second day of the event (following the timeline mentioned above). 
     
  3. In case you want to change your category of choice, please inform the organizers ( icoblet2024@udst.edu.qa ). 
  1. Our panel of judges will evaluate your proposed solutions. 
  1. Results will be announced as soon as possible. 
  • Attendance

This is a hybrid event. It will be held both in-person and virtually. In-person teams will join us at University of Doha for Science and Technology, Qatar. Virtual teams will connect via Zoom platform. 

Why should I join? 

The Eduthon provides an excellent opportunity to work together with like-minded peers and share your engaging and creative solutions to the Grand Challenge with experts. In addition, the top three most innovative implementable solutions will be awarded with prizes and certificates. 

  • Reference 
  1. Işık, E.B., Brazas, M.D., Schwartz, R. et al. Grand challenges in bioinformatics education and training. Nat Biotechnol 41, 1171–1174 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41587-023-01891-9