Topic: phylogenetic inference

Investigate whether conserved protein structures can improve phylogenetic inference for deeply diverged or rapidly evolving sequences. The workflow retrieves predicted structures, evaluates homology and alignment quality, and combines amino-acid and Foldseek 3Di representations for likelihood-based trees. Exercises compare structural alignment tools, evolutionary models, information criteria and distance methods, then visualise and statistically compare trees. Discussions examine assumptions and limitations of structure-based evidence. Live sessions: 2, 4, 5 and 6 November, 08:00–12:00, Europ

This practical course combines theory and computer exercises in sequence alignment, phylogenetic inference, hypothesis testing, natural selection, divergence dating and coalescent methods. It focuses on evolutionary analysis of nucleotide and protein sequence datasets rather than genome assembly or annotation. The course particularly suits early- and mid-stage doctoral researchers with some phylogenetics experience, access to their own data and basic Linux familiarity. Participants are selected through an application process.