The seminar titled “Redefining Virus Ecology and Evolution Using Metagenomics” organised by the Laboratory of Data Discovery of Health (D²4H) was successfully held on November 14, 2023 at INNO2 of the Hong Kong Science Park. The seminar was delivered by Professor Edward Holmes FAA FRS, NHMRC Leadership Fellow and Professor of Virology of the Faculty of Medicine and Health at the University of Sydney; and Co-Principal Investigator of the D²4H. The seminar described Professor Holmes’ journey of discovering the world of RNA viruses, revealing the transformative impact of bulk RNA shotgun sequencing and metatranscriptomics. This powerful combination has enhanced our understanding of the virosphere and shed light on how viruses move across the human-animal interface and emerge as new infectious diseases.

Professor Holmes also addressed challenges in identifying highly divergent viruses, known as the “dark matter” of the virosphere, and showcased how metatranscriptomics, coupled with AI technology, have efficiently detected viral sequences. The seminar unveiled the discovery of tens of thousands of novel RNA viruses, significantly more divergent than previously known, across diverse ecological niches.

The seminar was followed by a panel discussion moderated Dr Tommy Lam, Lead Scientist of the D²4H; and Associate Professor of the School of Public Health, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong.

Click here to learn more about Professor Holmes’ collaborative research at the D²4H

Seminar Details

Date: November 14, 2023 (Tuesday)

Time: 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. (HK Time)

Venue: Multi-Function Room 1, INNO2, Hong Kong Science Park

For future updates about D²4H’s events and seminars, please stay tuned on our website and social media platforms.