The five-day in-person training course, organized in partnership with the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), will take place from 1 to 5 December 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa.
The objectives of the training include:
- Understand the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC)
- Strengthen the capacity of scientists, public health professionals, microbiologists, and molecular biologists in biosecurity, diagnostics, and outbreaks/pandemic preparedness within the context of the BWC
- Gain hands-on technical expertise in molecular diagnostics (qRT-PCR, LAMP)
- Acquire foundational skills in genomic surveillance and bioinformatics
- Engage in scenario-based exercises to simulate outbreak response and decision-making
- Build an understanding of biosecurity risk assessment and mitigation (insider and outsider threats in laboratories, biosecurity risk matrices)
- Understand the governance of Dual-Use Research of Concern (DURC)
The training is targeted at early/mid-career scientists with a background in virology, microbiology, or related biological sciences (e.g., researchers, laboratory personnel) in the field of human, animal, or plant health. Applicants need to have demonstrated hands-on experience in molecular biology or pathogen diagnostics, currently working in at least a BSL-2 laboratory or similar facility, and have demonstrated experience with PCR, diagnostic equipment, and materials. Furthermore, applicants must possess a working knowledge of English. Female applicants are particularly encouraged to apply.
Applicants must register online for the training via the following link by Friday, 3 October 2025.
Alongside the registration, applicants are required to submit a letter of recommendation from their employer confirming institutional support for their application and explaining how the training will benefit the institution and national capacities. The Implementation Support Unit will seek the endorsement of the selected applicants by their respective relevant national authorities (e.g., BWC National Contact Point, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or Permanent Mission).
