Viral Bioinformatics & Genomics

This topic introduces the application of bioinformatics tools to virology, including viral genome sequencing analysis, phylogenetic tree construction to track outbreaks and evolution, database resources (e.g., GenBank, VIPR), and the prediction of antigenic sites or drug resistance mutations. For Zambian tertiary students in bioinformatics, molecular biology, and public health, these skills are increasingly important for genomic surveillance, vaccine strain selection, and understanding viral diversity. It bridges laboratory virology with computational analysis, preparing students for modern research and diagnostic roles.