About the Workshop
This 3-day hands-on workshop will focus on molecular methods used in plant diagnostic laboratories, using bacterial plant pathogens. The goal of this training is to strengthen diagnostic capacity by combining practical laboratory exercises with expert-led instruction on molecular methods and bacterial diagnostics.
What you'll learn
Participants can expect to learn about:
- Molecular detection and identification of bacterial plant pathogens
- Sample preparation considerations for bacterial diagnostics
- PCR- and sequencing-based methods used in diagnostic workflows
- Interpretation of molecular results in a diagnostic context
- Troubleshooting common challenges in molecular diagnostics
- Integration of molecular tools with traditional diagnostic methods
- The workshop will be taught by multiple subject matter experts from across the diagnostic network.
Dates & Location
Dates: February 24–26, 2026
Location: UF Plant Diagnostic Center
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
Meet the Instructors
Molecular Diagnostics
Dr. Tom Rounsville - University of Maine
Dr. Olivia Choi - University of Maine
Bacterial Diagnostics
Dr. John Bonkowski - Purdue University
Agenda
Updated 1/23/2026
Accommodations
A room block is available at the Aloft Gainesville University Area. Contact Allina Bennett (allina.bennett@ufl.edu) for more information.
