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Long-TREC: The Long-Reads Transcriptomics European Consortium. The next generation transcriptome biology revealed by single molecule sequencing technologies

Project description

Training experts in long-read RNA sequencing

Third-generation, single-molecule long-read sequencing technologies have revolutionised transcriptome research and are poised to outperform short-read sequencing in gene expression studies. However, technical and bioinformatics challenges hinder their full potential. The EU-funded LongTREC project will train a team of doctoral candidates to become experts in the field of long-read RNA sequencing by focusing on three key areas. The first is improving the quality of sequencing and preprocessed data through protocols and bioinformatics preprocessing methods. The second is the establishment of benchmarked analysis pipelines for the application of long-read sequencing techniques to genome annotation and isoform usage analysis in bulk and single-cell samples. The third is expanding the scope of long-read sequencing to encompass multi-omics applications for the study of regulatory biology.

Objective

Thrid-generation, single-molecule long-read sequencing technologies such as Nanopore and Pacbio are revolutionizing transcriptome research and are expected to outcompete short-reads sequencing for gene expression studies. However, technical and bioinformatics challenges exist to the realization of this full potential. In this project, we will train a team of excellent Doctoral Candidates to become the European and world leaders in the field of long reads transcriptome sequencing (lrRNA-seq). The team will address three fundamental aspects of current barriers to the progress that these technologies face. a) Obtaining high-quality sequencing and preprocessed data from improved library preparation protocols and bioinformatics preprocessing methods, b) Establishment of benchmarked analysis pipelines for the application of these approaches to genome annotation and isoform usage analysis both in bulk and single-cell samples, and c) Extension of long reads to multi-omics applications for the study of regulatory biology. Additionally, DC will follow an intensive and comprehensive training program composed of scientific and soft skills training, including activities related to pressing societal challenges such as climate change, diversity and inclusion, and the ethics of science. Students will complement their education through secondments in top European laboratories and Companies as well as through exposure to a network of worldwide experts in the field of RNA research.

Coordinator

AGENCIA ESTATAL CONSEJO SUPERIOR DE INVESTIGACIONES CIENTIFICAS
Net EU contribution
€ 251 971,20
Address
CALLE SERRANO 117
28006 Madrid
Spain

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Region
Comunidad de Madrid Comunidad de Madrid Madrid
Activity type
Research Organisations
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Total cost
No data

Participants (8)

Partners (20)