The de.NBI / ELIXIR-DE training platform - Bioinformatics training in Germany and across Europe within ELIXIR

Area of Science:

• Bioinformatics
• Life Sciences
• Computational Biology

Background:

• The German Network for Bioinformatics Infrastructure (de.NBI) is a national research infrastructure funded by the BMBF.
• It provides services, training, and cloud computing to life science and biomedical researchers.
• de.NBI also operates the German ELIXIR node (ELIXIR-DE), fostering international collaborations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To coordinate and deliver high-quality bioinformatics training across Germany.
• To empower life scientists with skills for analyzing biological big data.
• To integrate training efforts with the European ELIXIR infrastructure.

Main Methods:

• Development and delivery of a comprehensive training program through eight service centers.
• Introduction of online training modules and e-learning material guidelines.
• Collaboration with ELIXIR for training activities and course promotion via TeSS.

Main Results:

• Over 300 training courses conducted since 2015, reaching approximately 6,000 participants.
• Achieved nearly 90% recommendation rates for training courses (as of July 2020).
• Successfully trained thousands of scientists in diverse bioinformatics areas.

Conclusions:

• The de.NBI / ELIXIR-DE training platform effectively enhances bioinformatics expertise in the life sciences.
• The program's success is evidenced by high participant numbers and satisfaction rates.
• Continuous development of training resources, including online formats, supports the growing needs of researchers.