Advancing Long-Read Genomics in Southern Africa

Building practical expertise in long-read sequencing

As part of the AfricaBP Open Institute Regional Workshop – Southern Africa, MGI contributed to the programme with a dedicated three-day training workshop focused on long-read sequencing and genomics applications. Held at the SAMRC Genomics Platform in Parow, South Africa, the workshop brought together researchers interested in applying advanced sequencing technologies to biodiversity, genome assembly, conservation genetics and whole-genome sequencing.

The MGI-led workshop provided participants with practical experience of the CycloneSEQ G100ER long-read sequencing workflow, combining theoretical sessions with hands-on laboratory training. Participants explored the workflow from DNA quality assessment and library preparation through sequencing and data generation, gaining familiarity with the key steps required to generate long-read sequencing data.

The training covered essential laboratory steps including DNA quantification, reaction setup, end repair and A-tailing, magnetic bead purification and adapter ligation. Participants then prepared sequencing libraries, performed flow cell quality control and loading preparation, and loaded a library onto the Cyclone G100ER to initiate a sequencing run.

Beyond laboratory preparation and sequencing, the programme also introduced participants to long-read sequencing data analysis using CycloneFlow. Training included reviewing sequencing yield, read length and quality metrics, retrieving FASTQ/BAM data, whole-genome alignment, variant calling, coverage and mapping quality assessment, and report generation.

From technology familiarization to practical application, the workshop highlighted the role of hands-on training in strengthening genomics capabilities and supporting researchers as they explore long-read sequencing for complex genomic questions. The applications discussed included genome assembly, biodiversity genomics, conservation research and whole-genome sequencing, areas that are particularly relevant to initiatives such as the African BioGenome Project.

Through initiatives such as this workshop, MGI is supporting knowledge exchange and practical capacity building around emerging sequencing technologies, helping researchers gain the confidence and experience needed to integrate long-read sequencing into their genomic research workflows.