Exploring Open Data: The Importance of Sustained Sequencing

Posted on July 20, 2016   by Microbiology Society

Open data has the potential to revolutionise microbial genomics. But in practice, many of the benefits of this technology remain untapped. So how can we achieve greater data sharing? Over the coming weeks, we’ll be featuring some highlights from a panel discussion on open data at the Annual Conference 2016.

In this video Professor Paul Kellam discusses the need for sustained sequencing of new pathogens. Genetic sequences are powerful tools, and releasing limited metadata can provide real insight into an epidemic without revealing the identity of individuals. Nevertheless, genome sequencing needs to be maintained and published after the initial rush to provide maximum benefit for public health.

Paul Kellam is a Professor of Virology at Imperial College London and at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute.

This panel was hosted by the PHG Foundation. You can read more about their approach to open data and their model for data sharing here.