National workshop on machine learning kicks off at PAU

A three-day national workshop on “Next-generation sequencing and machine learning in bioinformatics” kicked off on Tuesday at the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), said officials.

Being organised by the Bioinformatics Centre, School of Agricultural Biotechnology, is sponsored by the Centre’s Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under the project titled: “Application of bioinformatics and computational biology in agriculture.”

Vice-Chancellor Satbir Singh Gosal, who is the chief guest at the workshop, appreciated the vision behind what he said was a “timely and much-needed” workshop. He said that the programme will enhance the technical competence of participants and promote the adoption of advanced bioinformatics in agriculture.

He introduced and emphasised the emerging concept of “agri-informatics”, highlighting the crucial role of data-driven science, big data analytics and computational approaches in addressing present-day challenges in agriculture.

Ajmer Singh Dhatt, director of research, said bioinformatics has become the need of the hour, with expanding practical applications in crop improvement.

Rishi Pal Singh, Registrar, encouraged the Bioinformatics Centre to organise more workshops and training programmes focused on machine learning and artificial intelligence.

The opening address was delivered by Navraj Kaur.

Parveen Chhuneja, Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR)-Norman Borlaug Chair; and organisers exuded confidence that the training will enhance the research capabilities of the participants and contribute to strengthening of genomics and bioinformatics research.

Earlier in the day, Yogesh Vikal, director, School of Agricultural Biotechnology, welcomed the dignitaries. He said renowned experts from prestigious institutions across the country will deliver lectures and conduct hands-on training sessions on genomic data analysis, machine learning tools and advanced bioinformatics workflows.