Training
About the Platform
The ELIXIR-IT Training Platform (TP) coordinates national training initiatives in bioinformatics and life science data management, aligning them with the European ELIXIR Training Platform. Its mission is to enhance national capacity by delivering high-quality, FAIR-aligned training and by fostering a new generation of expert trainers through the Train-the-Trainer (TtT) programme. The platform supports researchers, professionals, and institutions in acquiring the skills needed to use ELIXIR services and tools effectively.
Organization
The Training Platform is coordinated by the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), supported by the University of Salerno and Sapienza University of Rome. A core team meets weekly, while the broader ELIXIR-IT Training Team (ETT), composed of representatives from ELIXIR-IT member institutions, meets monthly to coordinate national activities, share best practices, and plan joint initiatives.
The platform delivers blended training formats, combining in-person events, hands-on workshops, and online resources, targeting diverse domains across bioinformatics, data science, and FAIR data stewardship. Standardisation of training protocols and materials ensures harmonised delivery across institutions. Continuous feedback and impact evaluation support alignment with evolving community needs.
Focus Areas of Activity
- Development of hands-on training in key domains (genomics, proteomics, systems biology)
- Implementation of FAIR principles in training resources and delivery
- Coordination of Train-the-Trainer and mentoring programmes
- Design of structured Learning Paths to support progressive skill development
- Assessment of training impact using standardised ELIXIR metrics
- Promotion of open, reusable, and interoperable training materials
Synergy with ELIXIR Europe
- ELIXIR-IT plays a leading role in shaping European bioinformatics training strategy. It co-leads:
- The ELIXIR–GOBLET Train-the-Trainer programme and mentoring scheme
- The Learning Paths project, developing structured, cross-domain curricula
- Contributions to training standards, FAIRification of training resources, and impact monitoring
- By actively engaging in ELIXIR-wide initiatives and work packages, ELIXIR-IT ensures that national activities contribute to, and benefit from, the broader European training ecosystem.
Leadership
For industry
- Access to high-quality training aligned with current industry needs
- Customised training options for upskilling staff
- Participation in training needs assessments and course co-design
- Support for continuous professional development in data-intensive research domains
- Improved adoption of ELIXIR tools and best practices in industrial R&D

