DIPLOMICS in partnership with the University of Johannesburg, University of Venda and the African Centre for Gene Technologies will be hosting the Advanced LC-MS-Based Plant Metabolomics Workshop.
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Background
South Africa’s biodiversity holds untapped potential for innovation in food security, agriculture, and biotechnology. However, a critical gap in metabolomics expertise limits progress—particularly in underserved regions. This training supports DIPLOMICS priorities by democratizing access to omics technologies and building local research capacity.
Training Overview
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Target Audience: Researchers, postgraduate students, early-career scientists,
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Format: Hands-on practical and theoretical sessions,
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Goal: Build technical proficiency in LC-MS technologies and metabolomics data analysis.
Learning Objectives
Participants will:
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Master the full metabolomics workflow:
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Sample preparation
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LC-MS operation
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Data analysis & metabolite annotation
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Use of bioinformatics tools
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Develop competencies in:
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MS fragmentation pattern analysis
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In silico metabolite structure prediction
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Network pharmacology and pathway mapping
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Workshop Modules & Daily Schedule
| Day
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Focus
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Topics Covered
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|---|---|---|
| Sun – 22 June | Arrival | Participants travel and arrival |
| Mon – 23 June | Introduction | Overview, principles, and workflows of plant metabolomics |
| Tue – 24 June | Sample Preparation | Collection, reproducibility, and best practices |
| Wed – 25 June | LC-MS Techniques | Instrument setup, optimization, and troubleshooting |
| Thu – 26 June | Data Analysis | Peak identification, quantification, statistics, in silico annotation |
| Fri – 27 June | Advanced Applications | Case studies, network pharmacology, integration into larger research projects |
Expected Impact
By the end of the workshop, participants will:
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Be equipped to independently run and interpret LC-MS-based plant metabolomics experiments
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Gain practical tools and insights to contribute to solutions in agriculture, health, and biotechnology through advanced metabolomics