The UK Human Functional Genomics Initiative is delighted to offer fully funded training bursaries to help UK researchers and technical professionals build practical skills in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). This programme is designed to support the future application of AI tools to biomedical data and includes both online and in-person training aimed at all career stages and paths for people in UK higher education institutions. All training fees, travel and subsistence to the workshop will be fully covered by our bursary funding supported by the UKRI/EPSRC and BioFAIR.
Applications are open to anyone working in the UK biomedical research community with an interest in functional genomics and AI/ML. We particularly encourage applications from early career researchers, research technology professionals and individuals from groups currently under-represented in AI/ML and genomics.
About the training:
The training will be split into two complementary components: an initial online program to cover introductory and foundation skills in AI/ML. On completion of the online training, there is an in person workshop in London on 23rd and 24th March 2026. The focus of the workshop will be on applying AI/ML approaches to functional genomics data. Attendees will be encouraged to bring their own data to work on during practical sessions. The workshop will also provide an opportunity for attendees to connect and network with peers and experts in genomics data science.
The online training will open from 15th December for orientation. Self study learning materials will be released on:
- Python Fundamentals 1: 5th January 2026
- Python Fundamentals 2: 12th January 2026
- Python Fundamentals 3: 26th January 2026
- Python Fundamentals 4: 2nd February 2026
- Data Handling 1: 16th February 2026
- Data Handling 2: 23rd February 2026
- Data Handling 3: 9th March 2026
- Data Handling 4: 16th March 2026
Details for the online course can be found here: https://learntodiscover.ai/product-category/modules/
Individuals who already have basic skills in python and data handling may be able to attend the workshop without the online pre-training, depending on availability.
Why Apply?
- Gain practical, career-boosting AI/ML skills tailored for biomedical research
- Access free, expert-led training – from basic Python skills to applied genomics AI
- Build a supportive network of researchers, technologists, and data scientists working in functional genomics
- Join the UK’s growing functional genomics and AI community
- Value of bursary ~£2,500
Expectations of Participants
- Permission from line manager to attend all parts of the training
- Completion of online training at 5-8 hours per week
- Assessment
- Attendance to the 2 day in person workshop in central London (23 & 24 March 2026)
- Attendance to the UK Human Functional Genomics Initiative Scientific Symposium in Manchester (25 June 2026)
- Light touch evaluation form 6 & 12 months after the end of the course to record benefits & any outputs
Closing date: 9th November 2026 (23:59)
For any questions feel free to e-mail: [email protected]