Unicellular and Invertebrate Models: Bridging Genetics and Biomedical Innovation | 1st edition

This is an intensive 5-day hands-on course that offers lectures by research experts on key invertebrate and microbial model organisms, more specifically worms (C. elegans), flies (D. melanogaster), yeast (S. cerevisiae), bacteria (cyanobacteria and L. monocytogenes). Participants will gain deep insights into the characteristics, advantages and research applications of these models, as well as learn and perform experimental manipulation. The course emphasizes dynamic collaboration, with participants with distinct backgrounds developing team projects under the guidance of the lecturers, fostering an interactive learning experience to explore the model organism(s) that are best suited to address specific scientific questions.

Course organizers: Ana Xavier de Carvalho (i3S) and Eurico Morais de Sá (i3S)

Target audience: Researchers in general, including Master students, PhD students, postdocs, etc

Course duration: 40 hours, 13-17 April 2026, 9:30-17:30

Course language: English

Requirements: A laptop will be necessary to participate in the course.

Full information: https://www.i3s.up.pt/training-detail.php?v=385

Registration: https://www.i3s.up.pt/eventos/registrationnew.php?eid=1198

Contents

. For each model, C. elegans, Drosophila, yeast, cyanobacteria and Listeria, understand its fundamental biology, life cycle and development, genetics and genomic tools, ethical considerations, disease and biomedical research applications, experimental techniques and model-specific methods.

. Understand the advantages and limitations of each model system.

. Learn about their contributions to genetics, cell biology, and biomedical research.

. Compare and contrast the experimental advantages of different systems.

. Develop hands-on laboratory skills for handling and culturing each model organism.

. Evaluate which model organism best suits specific scientific questions.

. Engage with peers to design a research project around a chosen theme, justifying the choice of model organism(s) based on scientific rationale.

. Receive feedback on project design and model selection.

. Benefit from lectures and mentorship by specialists in each model system.

. Connect with experts and fellow researchers in the field.