Nanopore sequencing mini-course-based undergraduate research experiences and micro-credentials for the next generation of biotechnicians

The National Science Foundation's STEM Education program (CFDA 47.076) awarded Austin Community College District $834,148 on August 1, 2025, to develop nanopore sequencing training curricula and industry-recognized credentials for biotechnology workforce development. Under this three-year project grant (completion date July 31, 2028), the institution is creating two mini-course-based undergraduate research experiences and two industry-certified micro-credentials focused on nanopore sequencing—an advanced biotechnology method critical to DNA and RNA analysis in industry, government, and academic settings. These deliverables address a documented workforce gap by providing hands-on training using industry-level nanopore sequencing technology and bioinformatics tools, with competency validation through newly developed micro-credentials developed in consultation with industry partners.

The project incorporates rigorous evaluation and dissemination mechanisms to support scalability and national adoption. ACC is collecting feedback from students, instructors, and industry stakeholders through direct observation and survey instruments to refine the mini-courses and micro-credentials before nationwide distribution. By establishing best practices for workforce education in nanopore sequencing, this project produces a replicable model designed to prepare the next generation of biotechnicians for career opportunities across the bioscience industry while addressing broader national priorities in STEM education and advanced technology workforce development.

Abstract

This project expands training in nanopore sequencing to better prepare students for careers in the U.S. Bioscience industry. Nanopore sequencing is an advanced biotechnology method used by employers in industry, government, and academia to analyze DNA or RNA from biological samples. As demand for this technology grows, so does the need for skilled biotechnicians who can apply IT in real-world settings. To address this need, the project develops best practices for workforce education and hands-on training in nanopore sequencing. Outcomes are shared widely as a scalable, adaptable model for bioscience training programs across the country. This project seeks to develop two nanopore sequencing-based mini-course undergraduate research experiences and two industry-certified nanopore sequencing micro-credentials. Through the mini-course research experiences, students in biotechnology and bioscience programs engage in authentic, student-driven research using industry-level nanopore sequencing technology and bioinformatics tools. For the micro-credentials, a business and industry leadership team provides guidance to identify the specific nanopore sequencing skills most valued in technician-level job candidates. Students receive workforce training in these skills, and their competency is certified through the newly developed micro-credentials. Student, instructor, and industry feedback is collected through direct observation and survey questionnaires based on these pilot experiences, and that feedback is used to refine and enhance the nanopore sequencing mini-cures and micro-credentials before nationwide dissemination. This project is funded by the advanced technological education program that focuses on the education of technicians for the advanced-technology fields that drive the nation's economy. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.- subawards are planned for this award.