Training workshop on QPCR

Written by Kerstin Klemm (Kerstin.Klemm@awi.de) for the ERA4CS.

The CoCliME project is developing proof-of-concept or prototype marine ecosystem climate services. A transferable framework will also be created to support informed decision making relevant to climate change-related ecological and socio-economic impacts across different coastal regions.

From 21st - 25th October 2019, a training workshop focused on an important tool, QPCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction) needed in such a climate service was held at the Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research in Bremerhaven, Germany. Quantitative PCR is a very useful climate service tool that monitors harmful marine microorganisms, e.g., help to detect invasive warm water species. The workshop participants included scientists who are responsible for national HAB (Harmful Algal Bloom) monitoring programmes and those who plan to initiate a monitoring programme. Eleven participants from six European countries came together to gain a deeper understanding of quantitative PCR and its applications in harmful algal bloom detection. The course included extensive theoretical and practical sessions and the expert trainers showed the participants on how to apply the QPCR molecular analysis tool autonomously. The outcome of the workshop was to ensure that the people trained can transfer the knowledge gained on novel ways to monitor and forecast harmful algal blooms  into the national monitoring programme needs of their own country.

From left: Raffaele Siano, Kerstin Klemm, Allan Cembella, Dave Clark, Sergio Seoane, Eli Gustad, Naomi Thomas, Laia Viure Feliu, Francisco Rodríguez Hernández, Robert G. Hatfield
Sitting: Anette Engesmo, Aourégan Terre, Catarina Churro, Uwe John, Kévin Drouet