Hacking COVID-19 — Course 1: Identifying a Deadly Pathogen

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/covid-19-genome-assembly

Introduction

### Course Review and Recommendation: Hacking COVID-19 — Course 1: Identifying a Deadly Pathogen In the ever-evolving landscape of bioinformatics and genomic research, understanding the intricacies of pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 is more crucial than ever. The course "Hacking COVID-19 — Course 1: Identifying a Deadly Pathogen," offered on Coursera, aims to equip learners with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to unravel the mysteries behind the COVID-19 pandemic. #### Overview This course is designed for a variety of learners—whether you are stepping into the realm of computational biology for the first time or you are an experienced bioinformatician looking to apply your skills to contemporary challenges. It offers a comprehensive journey into the study of pathogens, specifically focusing on the assembly of the SARS-CoV-2 genome. By combining engaging content with hands-on practice, the course delivers an enriching educational experience. #### Syllabus Breakdown **Week 1: Introduction to SARS and COVID-19** The course kicks off with a historical perspective on previous coronavirus outbreaks, including the SARS outbreak back in 2003. This context sets the stage for understanding the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 in late 2019. Through this section, learners gain insight into the biology of viruses and discover the initial responses to a global pandemic. This foundational knowledge is crucial for anyone looking to grasp the breadth of the virus's impact on society and healthcare. **Week 2: Sequencing the Genome** In the second week, participants delve into the cutting-edge technologies that make DNA sequencing possible. You will engage with SPAdes, an acclaimed genome assembly tool that allows users to reconstruct genomic sequences from fragmented DNA. The course also introduces QUAST, a software for assessing the quality of assembled genomes, which adds an extra layer of practical application. This week is particularly beneficial for those interested in the methodologies behind genomic sequencing and assembly. #### Pros of the Course 1. **Accessibility**: The course does an impressive job of making complex topics approachable for learners at various levels of expertise. Whether you're a complete newcomer or a seasoned professional, the structured flow of information ensures everyone can keep pace. 2. **Hands-on Approach**: The inclusion of practical assignments using actual genome assembly tools allows participants to reinforce their learning. This hands-on experience is invaluable in the field of bioinformatics. 3. **Relevant Content**: Considering the ongoing relevance of COVID-19 and its impact on public health, the course discusses timely and meaningful topics that resonate with current global challenges. 4. **Expert Instruction**: The course is designed and led by professionals with expertise in bioinformatics and genomics, providing learners with insights grounded in real-world applications. #### Cons of the Course - **Pace of Learning**: For complete beginners, the rapid introduction of scientific and technical concepts may feel overwhelming at times. A more gradual introduction could enhance understanding for those without a background in biology or computer science. - **Limited Depth**: Some learners might find the course lacks in-depth exploration of advanced topics in bioinformatics. However, this is expected given its introductory nature. #### Conclusion and Recommendation Overall, "Hacking COVID-19 — Course 1: Identifying a Deadly Pathogen" is a commendable educational resource that effectively bridges the gap between theory and practical application in the realm of bioinformatics. The blend of historical context, technological insights, and hands-on training makes this course an essential starting point for anyone interested in understanding and combating viral pandemics. Whether you are seeking to enhance your resume, pivot to a new career in bioinformatics, or simply satisfy your curiosity about genetic research, I wholeheartedly recommend this course. It not only provides valuable skills but also empowers you to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing fight against infectious diseases. Take the first step in your bioinformatics journey and enroll today!

Syllabus

Week 1

In Chapter 1, we will first travel back in time to learn about the history of the SARS outbreak of 2003. Next, we will travel to late 2019 to learn about the origins of SARS-CoV-2, a novel virus that wreaked havoc upon the world during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lastly, we will explore the biology behind this mysterious virus as we take our first steps towards Hacking COVID-19.

In Chapter 2, we will learn about how modern technologies are able to sequence DNA in small chunks. Next, we will learn how to use SPAdes, a popular genome assembly tool, to reconstruct the SARS-CoV-2 genome from small fragments. Lastly, we will learn how to use QUAST to assess the quality of our assembled SARS-CoV-2 genome.