This virtual training provides an overview of how mobile laboratories and field-deployable sequencing technologies support rapid response during infectious disease outbreaks. Through insights from experts in emergency biological intervention, field epidemiology, and outbreak surveillance coordination, participants will examine the operational, logistical, and analytical components required to deploy mobile diagnostics in crisis settings.

 Dates: 13 and 15 April 2026. 

 Duration: Two half-days 09:00-12:30 CEST. 

Location: Online - Find the link after enrolment. 

Audience: Public health microbiologists, epidemiologists, or bioinformaticians interested in learning about the deployment strategies of mobile labs to the field during outbreaks and the role of genomic surveillance during an outbreak investigation.

Objectives:  

Upon completion of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Describe the operational role of mobile laboratories in outbreak response, including their deployment, logistical requirements, and integration into emergency public health interventions.
• Explain the principles and workflows of field-deployable sequencing technologies, including sample processing, rapid diagnostics, and portable genomic sequencing approaches.
• Interpret how genomic data generated in field settings can support outbreak investigation, including pathogen detection, strain characterization, and situational awareness for response teams.
• Apply basic concepts of mobile laboratory deployment through a simulated outbreak scenario, including interpretation of initial diagnostic results and consideration of operational decision-making.
• Recognise the evolution and future directions of field sequencing initiatives, including global and European efforts to strengthen genomic surveillance capacity during epidemics.

Participation: This course is open for public enrolment.