In June 2020, the Communicable Diseases Genomics Network (CDGN) was awarded a $3.27 million MRFF COVID-19 Grant for genomics research. This research project will address the urgent need for national implementation of SARS-CoV-2 genomics in Australia.
The project consists of four research aims to allow a better understanding of the behaviour, spread and evolution of the virus, using the precision of next-generation sequencing technology.
Aim 1: Identify optimal approaches to SARS-CoV-2 whole genome sequencing and analysis that will yield high-resolution, high-quality characterisation of the virus
Aim 2: Investigate best-practice methods for integration of national genomics and epidemiological data to identify transmission clusters and events
Aim 3: Undertake phylodynamics analysis of retrospective and real-time SARS-CoV-2
Aim 4: Evaluating the impact of pathogen genomics in the COVID-19 pandemic
This project aims to support sequencing of 13,900 samples across Australia and will place Australia at the forefront of genomic epidemiological responses to COVID-19.
This research is dedicated to explicitly understanding and informing the COVID-19 response in Australia. The activities of this project will be facilitated by CDGN and will ensure facilitation and integration of SARS-CoV-2 genomic data from around Australia, providing equity in accessing genomics capacity and informing public health responses on a national level.
Key public health laboratory organisations involved include University of New South Wales, Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory, Queensland Forensic Scientific Services and Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, who are incorporating training and the extension of SARS-CoV-2 whole-genome sequencing and genomic analysis to other states, for use in national public health responses.
The project will also ensure equity of technology access across the country. It capitalises on existing governance structures of the network to coordinate activities between Australia’s pathogen genomics research and diagnostic laboratories with well-established workflows for whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatics.
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