Building international research capability through eDNA training

The Gulbali Institute strengthened international environmental capacity by delivering an intensive environmental DNA (eDNA) Master Class for government agencies from Laos, Cambodia and Indonesia. Designed and hosted at the university’s Albury campus, with support from The Crawford Fund, the five-day program offered hands on training across field sampling, laboratory workflows and introductory bioinformatics. Participants worked alongside Charles Sturt molecular biology and bioinformatics specialists to explore eDNA applications through site visitsin the Murray-Darling Basin and practical laboratory sessions.

The training equipped 16 participants with the skills to design sampling protocols, collect and process DNA samples, and assess the value of eDNA within their own environmental management context. All participants, reported enhanced understanding and increased confidence in applying eDNA methods, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness.

This collaboration supports global partnership-driven capacity building that underpins progress towards shared environmental sustainability goals.