The GuardIAS Summer School recently wrapped up an intensive, week-long program at Nord University in Bodø, Norway. Bringing together an international group of researchers, trainers, and trainees, the summer school offered a comprehensive look at how environmental DNA (eDNA) is transforming the way we monitor, detect, and manage Invasive Alien Species (IAS).
From hands-on sampling in the rain to processing millions of DNA reads and debating international policy, here is a look back at what our participants accomplished over the course of the week.
Setting the Stage: eDNA and Invasion Ecology
The week kicked off at Nord University’s Noatun facility with foundational lectures to set the scientific context. Anastasija Zaiko opened the seminar spotlights with an introduction to eDNA and invasive species, mapping out invasion pathways, biosecurity risks, and the critical role of early detection.
A major theme of the early sessions was data reliability. Rein Brys led a deep dive into the ecology of eDNA, exploring its environmental fate, how it decays over time, and how to optimize sampling designs. A key part of this discussion focused on minimizing false positives and false negatives—a vital step for ensuring that eDNA data can be trusted by environmental managers.
From the Field to the Lab
On Day 2, participants traded the classroom for the field, heading out to a local marina and nearby river in Bodø to put theory into practice. Trainees gained hands-on experience with various sampling protocols, working with filters, syringes, peristaltic pumps, and passive samplers (POMPOMs). The outdoor session emphasized real-world challenges, particularly how to prevent sample contamination in the field.
Once back indoors, the focus shifted to laboratory analysis. Trainees stepped into the lab for practical training in droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), analyzing experimental samples to see firsthand how this highly sensitive tool can be deployed for early detection and biosecurity monitoring.
Navigating Sequencing and Bioinformatics
As the week progressed, the curriculum moved into data analytics and sequencing. Raakel Blaalid guided participants through the technical nuances of target species detection versus metabarcoding, explaining the current challenges of high-throughput sequencing and the limitations of existing reference databases.
Data generation is only half the battle; the next step is making sense of it. Day 4 was dedicated entirely to bioinformatics. Participants explored how to clean, process, and interpret massive datasets, learning how millions of raw DNA reads are transformed into actionable biodiversity data using specialized workflows, including the MJOLNIR pipeline.
Bridging the Gap Between Science and Policy
The final stretch of the summer school looked at the broader picture: how do we transition eDNA from a research tool into standard environmental policy?
Teun Everts led a session on implementing eDNA within European invasion frameworks, highlighting its potential to support rapid response initiatives under EU Regulation 1143/2014. The group also tackled complex governance and ethical questions, discussing the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Nagoya Protocol, and the ongoing global debates surrounding digital sequence information (DSI) as a genetic resource.
A Successful Week in Bodø
The week proved to be an inspiring showcase of collaboration, bridging cutting-edge molecular biology with practical environmental management.
The presentations are available to view online here.
A huge thank you to Nord University for hosting us, to our expert trainers for sharing their knowledge, and to all the trainees whose energy and ideas made the week a resounding success.
