Data Analysis with R for Genomics (ANU JCSMR)

This workshop is available for academic staff and HDR students of the ANU Shine-Dalgarno Centre for RNA Innovation and John Curtin School of Medical Research.

Workshop dates & times

This workshop runs over two afternoons from 1:00pm - 5:00pm (AEST), Monday 27th July and Tuesday 28th July 2026.

About the workshop

A practical introduction to R and RStudio for researchers working with genomics data. The workshop teaches core R programming skills in a genomics context, using a real-world variant calling dataset derived from an E. coli experiment. Participants learn to work with genomics file types, manipulate and wrangle data using tidyverse tools, interact with Bioconductor packages and produce publication-quality visualisations using ggplot2. No prior programming experience is required. The workshop builds a strong foundation for downstream bioinformatics workflows and prepares participants to engage with more advanced genomics analyses. 

Learning objectives 

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to: 

• Navigate the RStudio interface and explain why coding is valuable for genomics research. 

• Write and interpret basic R code, including working with vectors, factors and data frames. 

• Understand the structure of common genomics file types, including FASTQ and VCF formats. 

• Import and inspect genomics datasets in R and assess whether data has been correctly read. 

• Use Bioconductor packages to work with genomics-specific data structures and file types. 

• Wrangle and summarise data frames using dplyr and tidyverse tools. 

• Produce clear, publication-ready visualisations using ggplot2. 

• Find and use R help resources effectively to troubleshoot and extend their own analyses. 

Other workshops in this series:

RNA-Seq Analysis with R (ANU JCSMR)

Single-cell RNA-Seq Analysis Using R (ANU JCSMR)

Spatial Transcriptomics (ANU JCSMR)

FAQs

What should I bring into the event?

This is an online workshop, so you will need to provide your own computer and have access to a reliable internet connection sufficient for video conferencing. A second monitor is highly recommended.

What prior experience do I need?

No prior experience with R or RStudio is required. Participants must have R and RStudio installed before the first session. Installation instructions will be provided on registration. A full-function computer (Windows, Mac or Linux) is required. Chromebooks and tablets are not suitable. A second monitor is strongly recommended. A reliable internet connection suitable for video conferencing is essential. 

Who should attend?

Biologists, life scientists and computer scientists who are new to R and want to develop practical data analysis and visualisation skills in a genomics context. 

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

You can email training@qcif.edu.au.