Hands-on Training in Isolation, Identification and Taxonomy for Algal Biotechnology (From Theory to Practice)

07th - 11th September 2026 - Centre for Advanced Studies in Botany, University of Madras, Chennai, India

This international-level training programme is designed to provide comprehensive theoretical knowledge and intensive hands-on experience in the isolation, cultivation, identification, and taxonomic characterization of microalgae using both classical and modern molecular approaches. The course aims to bridge the gap between traditional morphology-based taxonomy and contemporary molecular systematics, enabling participants to accurately identify microalgal species and understand their ecological and biotechnological significance.

The programme focuses on practical skill development through field sampling, culture establishment, microscopic analysis, use of standard monographs and taxonomic keys, molecular barcoding, DNA sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis. Participants will receive training in operating advanced laboratory instruments and interpreting molecular data to achieve accurate species-level identification.

The training course is particularly beneficial for research scholars, young faculty members, postgraduate students, and early-career researchers working in phycology, microbiology, biotechnology, environmental sciences, aquatic biology, and related disciplines.

Registration Link 

Objectives of the Course

1. To train participants in systematic collection of microalgae from diverse aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
2. To impart in-depth knowledge of classical microalgal taxonomy using authoritative monographs and identification keys.
3. To understand cellular, morphological, and ultrastructural features relevant to taxonomy through microscopic studies.
4. To introduce modern sequencing techniques for molecular identification and phylogenetic analysis.
5. To enable participants to interpret genetic data for accurate species-level identification.

Major Topics Covered

• Microalgal diversity and ecological significance
• Field collection and sampling strategies
• Isolation, enrichment, and unialgal culture techniques
• Identification using classical monographs and floras
• Morphological and structural characterization
• Use of standard taxonomic keys
• Introduction to molecular taxonomy and DNA barcoding
• DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and sequencing
• Genetic data analysis and database submission
• Phylogenetic interpretation for species identification

Course Structure and Training Modules

Day 1: Introduction to Microalgal Diversity and Field Sampling

Lectures

• Global diversity and classification of microalgae
• Ecological distribution and biogeography
• Importance of classical taxonomy in the molecular era

Practical Sessions

• Sampling from freshwater, marine, and brackish habitats
• Collection of planktonic, benthic, epiphytic, and epilithic microalgae

Day 2: Sample Processing and Culture Establishment

Lectures

• Enrichment and isolation strategies
• Culture media and growth requirements

Practical Sessions

• Enrichment and selective cultivation
• Serial dilution, agar plating, and micropipette isolation
• Establishment of unialgal cultures

Day 3: Classical Taxonomy and Structural Studies

Lectures

• Principles of microalgal taxonomy and nomenclature
• Use of standard monographs and floras

Practical Sessions

• Microscopic analysis and morphometric studies
• Identification using standard taxonomic keys and monographs

Day 4: Molecular Identification and Sequencing Techniques

Lectures

• Molecular markers for microalgal identification
• DNA barcoding and polyphasic taxonomy
• Introduction to Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)

Practical Sessions

• Genomic DNA extraction
• PCR amplification of barcode genes
• Sequencing workflow demonstration

Day 5: Genetic Data Analysis

Lectures

• Sequence analysis and database comparison
• Phylogenetic tree construction

Practical Sessions

• BLAST analysis
• Phylogenetic interpretation for species identification

Target Participants

• Research Scholars
• Postgraduate Students
• Young Faculty Members from Universities and Colleges
• Early-career Researchers from Research Institutes
• Professionals interested in algal biotechnology and taxonomy

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the programme, participants will be able to:

• Design and execute microalgal sampling strategies
• Handle and calibrate different microscopic systems
• Identify microalgae using classical taxonomy and standard monographs
• Correlate structural features with taxonomic classification
• Perform molecular identification workflows
• Analyze sequence data and infer phylogenetic relationships

Facilities and Infrastructure

The programme will utilize advanced facilities available at the Centre for Advanced Studies in Botany, University of Madras, including:

• Compound and phase-contrast microscopes
• Differential interference microscopes with imaging systems
• Algal growth chambers
• PCR and qPCR systems
• Gel documentation systems
• Laminar airflow chambers and autoclaves
• Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)

Certification

Participants who successfully complete the training programme will receive a certificate jointly issued by the International Society for Applied Phycology (ISAP) and the University of Madras.

Funding

This Training course is Hosted by the Centre for Advanced Studies in Botany, University of Madras, Chennai, India (Logo 1) with funding from the International Society for Applied Phycology (ISAP), Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and Tamil Nandu State Council for Science and Technology (TANSCST).