Population genetics of polyploids, from theory to practice
Polyploidy is widespread and frequent in plants, but also occurs in animals such as fish and amphibians. However, our understanding of the genetics of polyploid populations is still poor, mainly because population genetics theory was originally developed for diploids. Moreover, there is often a gap between theory developed for polyploids and its practical implementation.
This hands-on workshop will attempt to bridge this gap. Simulation-based exercises (among others using R) will elucidate theoretical foundations of both diploid and polyploid population genetics, and cases of mixed ploidy. Additionally, analyses of real(istic) example datasets will give participants hands-on training in several available methods for the population genetic analysis of polyploids.
This workshop is part of the International Polyploidy Conference 2026.
Preliminary Program Wednesday 9 - Sunday 13 September
| Date | Time | |
| Wednesday | 19:00 | Arrival by bus after leaving the conference dinner |
| Thursday | 09:00 - 12:00 | A – Introduction to autopolyploid population genetics - theory & simulations |
| 14:00 - 17:00 | A – Introduction to autopolyploid population genetics - theory & simulations | |
| 19:00 - 21:00 | Participant intro (research posters) | |
| Friday | 09:00 - 12:00 | B – Population structure of mixed-ploidy SNP data - practice |
| 14:00 - 17:00 | B – Population structure of mixed-ploidy data, auto/allopolyploidy - practice | |
| 19:00 - 21:00 | Evening session (optional)work | |
| Saturday | 09:00 - 12:00 | C – Signatures of selection in autopolyploids - theory & simulations |
| 14:00 - 16:00 | D – Signatures of selection in autopolyploids - practice | |
| 16:00 - 18:00 | E – Feedback frenzy – discuss outcomes of the workshop and each other’s research with help of posters | |
| 18:00 - 21:00 | Farewell social event | |
| Sunday | 11:00 | Departure & checkout |
| Target Group | The course is aimed at PhD students, but we will consider applications from experienced Master-students and early-postdocs. The number of participants is limited, and we will select participants based on their motivation, career stage and topical relevance. |
| Group Size | Max. 20 participants |
| Course duration | 3 full days from 9:00 - 17:00 |
| Prior knowledge | Basic knowledge of R programming language and general knowledge of population genetic foundations of diploid populations (diversity, differentiation). Please bring your own computer. |
| Lecturers | Jörn Gerchen, Filip Kolář, Patrick Meirmans & Alison Scott |
| Location | Parkhotel de Bosrand, Ede, the Netherlands |
| FEE1,2 | |
| PhD candidates | € 380- |
| Experienced Master Students | € 380,- |
| Early-postdocs | € 380,- |
1 The course fee will cover meals and accommodation during the workshop.
2 The course fee does not include conference entrance, tickets for the conference must be purchased separately.
Payment options
Payment by Credit card or IDEAL/Wero is not possible. |
Financial Aid Scholarship decisions, if applicable, will be announced in May. |
This workshop is aimed at PhD students, but we will consider applications from experienced Master-students and early-postdocs.
The number of participants is limited, and we will select participants based on their motivation, career stage and topical relevance. To be considered for the workshop, please fill out the registration form and upload one pdf document including:
A brief CV (max 2 pages).
Motivation letter, which summarizes your research and your motivation to participate in the workshop (maximum 500 words).
If applicable*, a brief statement (up to 100 words) requesting financial aid.
DEADLINE: June 1, 2026.
Applications completed after the deadline will only be considered if there are still spaces available.
* The workshop organizers aim to offer scholarships to applicants with financial need, depending on fundraising success. If the workshop fee would pose a financial hardship, please include in your application a brief statement (up to 100 words) requesting financial aid. You may also describe how your participation could support diversity and representation in science (for example: from a lower GDP country, a single parent, a minority group, or first-generation higher education background). Scholarship decisions, if applicable, will be announced in May. |