The 4th Annual Molecular Methods in Food Microbiology symposium will be held June 27 - July 1, 2011 at Colorado State University in Fort Collins. The hands-on workshop will specifically focus on the use and application of DNA sequencing, including conventional Sanger and next generation sequencing, for the molecular detection and subtyping of food-associated microorganisms.

Dr. Martin Wiedmann (Cornell University), Dr. Haley Oliver (Purdue University), Dr. Sarita Raengpradub-Wheeler (Silliker Inc.), and Dr. Kendra Nightingale (Colorado State University) will serve as co-directors of the symposium and workshop. This year’s program will include:

• A two-and-a-half day hands-on laboratory session entailing 16S rDNA sequence-based identification, multilocus sequence typing, design of a custom multiplex detection method for STEC or other targets of interest, and application of commercially available multiplex real-time PCR assays to detect foodborne pathogens.
• A half-day discussion and evaluation of commercially available assays for the detection and subsequent characterization of non-O157 shiga toxin encoding Escherichia coli (STEC).

The overall goal of the symposium and workshop is to address and fill-in knowledge gaps regarding molecular detection and subtyping of foodborne pathogens and spoilage organisms for current and future food safety professionals from industry, regulatory agencies and academic institutions.

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