The team at East Genomics is now using virtual reality (VR) to support staff in acquiring and developing key laboratory skills. The new resource has been provided to all Genomic Medicine Services (GMS) in England by the Genomics Training Academy (GTAC) and includes eight “Virtual Reality: Inside the lab” modules focused on different core techniques used in the Genomic Laboratory Hubs.
The VR systems will not replace hands-on learning, but make it easier to gain practical experience of lab techniques without increasing demand on limited laboratory resources. Integrating VR into the training provision for the GMS is intended to enable staff to acquire new skills faster, and to a higher level of proficiency and confidence in different techniques. This also helps to maintain the high productivity of our labs, moving us closer to our turnaround time goals for tests.
While the resource has primarily been created to support upskilling of the specialist workforce in genomics, the VR modules also provide a way for people to explore a genomics lab without actually visiting one, making it a fantastic tool to help share our work with key stakeholders.
The GLHs are busy working laboratories and it can be challenging for trainees to gain hands-on experience of key methods and build their confidence working in the labs. This VR approach provides additional support and an adaptable, immersive experience that gives trainees freedom to learn and consolidate their skills in a supportive learning environment. It’s a great way for new and experienced colleagues to develop their skills.
Francesca Tonini, East Genomics scientific educator lead
The eight training modules currently available cover a range of sample preparation and analysis techniques, including:
- Massively parallel sequencing (also known as next-generation sequencing)
- Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA)
- Non-invasive prenatal diagnosis (NIPD)
- Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT)
- Nucleic acid extraction from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
- Preparation of samples for cytogenetic analysis
- Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) microarrays
The GTAC (opens in a new tab), is a national initiative supporting the development of specialist genomics roles within the NHS. They plan to roll-out more VR modules in future to support continued growth of the GMS.
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