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Overview

Large Language Models (LLMs) are creating a shift of paradigm in how we interact with data across domains. Bioinformatics is one of the fields most prominently impacted by the advent of LLMs, whether for biodata exploration, via LLM-based AI assistants, or for dedicated, domain-specific LLMs such as Protein Language Models or even “ChatGPT for CRISPR”. But how are these models trained? How do we choose among the plethora of options for a target use case? And how do we adapt an existing model to our needs?

This 2 h course will give a gentle introduction into LLMs, how they are trained and how they can be fine-tuned for specific applications, with a focus on their uses in bioinformatics. Participants will be able to get a first hands-on experience interacting with an LLM for exploring biodata.

The course will include 2 Q&A sessions and references for further reading.

Audience

This course is addressed to life scientists and bioinformaticians, in academia and industry, who are interested in LLMs.

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the participants are expected to:

Understand the basics of Large Language Models
List some existing LLMs and their applications in bioinformatics
State the pros and cons of closed source vs open source LLMs
Interact with an LLM for exploring biodata

Prerequisites

Knowledge / competencies

This course is designed for beginners. Participants are expected to be familiar with Python (only for the hands-on exercise).

Technical

You are required to have your own computer with an Internet connection.

Application

Attendance is free-of-charge; however, registration is mandatory.

You will be informed by email of your registration confirmation.

Applications close on 13/09/2024. Deadline for free-of-charge cancellation is set to 13/09/2024. Please note that participation in SIB courses is subject to our general conditions.

Venue and Time

This course will be streamed using Zoom. It will start at 15:00 CET (09:00 EST) and end around 17:00 CET (11:00 EST).

All registered participants will receive the information for remotely connecting to the online meeting room by email one working day before the webinar.

Additional information

Coordination: Monique Zahn, SIB Training group.

You are welcome to register to the SIB courses mailing list to be informed of all future courses and workshops, as well as all important deadlines using the form here.

Please note that participation in SIB courses is subject to our general conditions.

SIB abides by the ELIXIR Code of Conduct. Participants of SIB courses are also required to abide by the same code.

For more information, please contact training@sib.swiss.

Introduction to Large Language Models for Life Scientists