The objective of the course is to teach how low-cost, state-of-the-art research tools and models can be employed in a low-resource setting using open-source software and hardware to build lab equipment. Throughout, we will also put special emphasis on the importance of good scientific conduct, project design, management, and scientific communication

About the School

This course aims to introduce key concepts of Open Science and Neuroscience, both theoretically and importantly through experiments. The course is divided into two parts. In the first part, we will teach general concepts of Open Science in the lab, from open hardware and software to how to generate your own experimental reagents. This will not only make your science more open and reproducible but will make it more cost-effective.

In the second part of the course, we will perform neuroscience research using three model organisms that are inexpensive and enable a wide range of experimental approaches thanks to their genetic accessibility, namely: Drosophila, zebrafish, and C. elengas. Subjects covered will range from programming, open source hardware projects, lab maintenance, behavioral and electrophysiological research techniques.

No attendance fee will be charged; nonetheless the organizers expect you to give a talk at your department about the workshop content and the organization.

Week one: Basic modules for all participants
Module 1: Open hardware
Module 2: Open lab reagents
Module 3: Python programming

Week two: Participants will be divided into three groups
Module 1: Drosophila
Module 2: Zebrafish
Module 3: C. elegans

Who should apply to this School?

All African scientists: Master students, PhD students, Postdoctoral Fellows and Group Leaders. Only applicants from African Institutions will be considered.

Students will be selected on the basis of their academic records and written statements concerning their interest in neuroscience and how they expect to benefit from participating in the course.

There will be no attendance fee. There will be a number of grants for students coming from outside South Africa. These will cover round plane tickets from a major international airport (or bus tickets, depending on distance) and accommodation.

What costs will be covered for selected participants?

Economy round-trip airfare from a major international airport in their country to Cape Town, accommodation, and breakfast.

Application dates:
July 5 – August 26, 2022 (5:00 p.m. CET)

School dates and location:

December 5-17, 2022

University of Cape Town, South Africa

Apply HERE

For any queries, please contact Prof. Samyra Salek at samyra@trendinafrica.org .