Advanced Genomic Technologies, AI, and Global ELSI in Precision Oncology: From Sequencing to Societal Leadership

Course Overview and Description

Course Overview

This future-facing course explores how next-generation genomics and artificial intelligence are reshaping cancer research and precision oncology, and how the ethical, legal, and social implications of these technologies will shape their responsible use. You will engage with the science that is changing clinical reality, from CRISPR-enabled genome editing and single-cell sequencing to graph genome models and liquid biopsy approaches that can reveal disease biology in real time.

 

What makes this course distinctive is not only what you learn, but how you learn to think. You will develop the judgement required to evaluate evidence, uncertainty, and real-world impact, especially in areas where scientific possibility moves faster than public trust, regulation, and equity. Through case-led learning and immersive simulations, you will explore how governance frameworks, social justice, and moral responsibility shape what is permissible, what is effective, and what is truly beneficial in precision oncology.

 

By the end of the programme, you are not simply “trained” in advanced topics. You are supported to think as a responsible innovator, able to work at the intersection of discovery, policy, and human consequence.

 

Course Description

Learners explore advanced genomics, AI, and ethical governance through the lens of cancer diagnostics and personalised treatment, including:

 

  • Genome alignment, variant calling, and graph-based genome modelling
  • Whole-genome, single-cell, and multi-omics sequencing in translational contexts
  • AI-enabled pipelines and emerging computational approaches in genomic interpretation
  • CRISPR/Cas technologies and ethical boundaries in somatic and germline editing
  • ctDNA and liquid biopsy informatics for early detection and longitudinal monitoring
  • Global governance frameworks, including privacy law, consent standards, and genomic sovereignty debates
  • International ethical guidance frameworks, including UNESCO’s Universal Declaration on the Human Genome and Human Rights (1997) and GA4GH guidance
  • Real-world controversies including the CRISPR baby case, embryo selection debates, and inequities in access to BRCA testing

 

Learners also participate in a simulation experience, such as an ethics board hearing, public health tribunal, or global data summit. An optional mini-capstone supports learners in developing a translational innovation proposal or policy brief, with structured feedback where appropriate.

 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, learners will be able to:

  • Apply genomic sequencing and AI-informed analysis concepts to real translational oncology scenarios
  • Interpret both the value and limitations of CRISPR, ctDNA, and graph genome approaches
  • Critically assess ethical controversies using legal, philosophical, and public health frameworks
  • Compare global approaches to privacy, consent, and equitable access in genomic medicine
  • Design an evidence-led policy, governance, or innovation proposal integrating ethics and population health priorities
  • Communicate strategies clearly and responsibly to scientific, clinical, and public stakeholders

Program Structure

At Afer*Nova, programmes combine academic depth with real-world relevance through a structure designed to support both independence and intellectual mentorship.

 

Self-Paced Foundation Modules

Programmes begin with flexible, high-quality learning modules that build a strong conceptual base, including:

  • Faculty-led teaching videos and guided learning pathways
  • Research-led case materials and structured readings
  • Short quizzes and reflective tasks to strengthen understanding
  • A learning format that supports independent progress while building confidence in core concepts

 

Live, Case-Based Mentorship Sessions (where offered)

Learners engage in mentor-guided workshops focused on applied reasoning, featuring:

  • Cross-disciplinary case challenges linked to real translational dilemmas
  • Group problem-solving and structured discussion
  • Feedback from expert facilitators, researchers, or professionals

 

These sessions are designed to develop clarity, confidence, collaboration, and decision-making under uncertainty.

 

Agile, Global-Relevance Curriculum

Every programme is reviewed periodically to reflect:

  • Breakthroughs in science, technology, and health governance
  • Input from academic reviewers, mentors, and learners
  • Shifts in public debate and emerging policy priorities

 

This ensures the curriculum remains forward-looking while grounded in responsible scholarship.

Teaching and Assessment

What Sets this Program Apart

This course offers a rare combination: advanced genomic science, AI-enabled medicine, and the ethical reasoning required to lead responsibly in precision oncology. You learn how evidence is generated, contested, and governed, and how decisions are shaped by law, equity, and public accountability.

 

Learners are supported through structured teaching and mentoring from experienced educators and professionals working across genomics, clinical ethics, and AI-enabled health innovation. Support is provided through guided learning, small-group sessions, and individual feedback where appropriate.

 

Subject to academic standards and review, learners may also be supported in developing research summaries, abstracts, policy briefs, or innovation proposals suitable for dissemination in appropriate academic or professional settings.

 

Learners who successfully complete programme requirements receive a certificate of completion. Where appropriate, and subject to meeting defined performance standards, students may be eligible to request a personalised letter of recommendation at the discretion of the supervising academic or clinical advisor.

 

Important note: dissemination opportunities and recommendation letters are discretionary outcomes and are not guaranteed.

 

Programme Highlights

Subject to performance, quality review, and supervision, learners may have the opportunity to:

  • Work with widely used genomics resources and tools (for example Ensembl, GEO, and GTEx)
  • Develop a policy or innovation output addressing a live ethical challenge in precision oncology
  • Participate in tribunal-style simulations that mirror real-world decisions in genomics and healthcare
  • Receive structured mentoring and feedback from experienced researchers and educators
  • Earn a programme-issued certificate and, where appropriate, request a tailored academic reference

Advanced Genomic Technologies, AI, and Global ELSI in Precision Oncology: From Sequencing to Societal Leadership

Register Now

If you wish to enroll in the course, please click the ‘Register Now’ button. Our team will reach out to you after reviewing your academic qualifications.

Fill the form below to get registered.

By clicking the "submit" button, you agree to receive marketing emails from AferNova and AferNova’s privacy policy