WORKSHOP
DNA barcoding of fungi
– Hands-on workshop
October 7, 2025 — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Museumsquartier Room D
In this interactive workshop, we will show you how to isolate DNA from fresh mushrooms and prepare it for DNA sequencing, even without access to a high-tech laboratory. Using the portable mini-lab "Bento Lab“ we guide you step by step through the entire process: from DNA extraction and amplification using PCR to visualizing the DNA from your samples and preparing them for DNA sequencing.
In the second part of the workshop, you'll learn how to correctly interpret and evaluate your sequencing results on your own laptop. Together, we'll examine DNA sequences and learn how to distinguish good from bad results. We'll show you how to compare your sequences with international databases to determine the fungal species and what to do if the results are inconclusive. We'll also take a look at phylogenetic analyses and other exciting analysis options.
Photo: Bento Bioworks
Who is this workshop suitable for?
- Mushroom enthusiasts and citizen scientists who want to document and scientifically catalog their observations using DNA barcoding.
- Teachers who want to incorporate the acquired knowledge into their lessons and inspire students to engage in scientific work.
- Curious people and technology enthusiasts who have always wanted to know how modern mushroom identification works.
Theoretical knowledge
Previous theoretical knowledge of DNA, PCR, and sequencing is helpful and allows for a direct entry into the workshop. You can find a refresher here:
By clicking on the video you agree to the data transfer to YouTube.
By clicking on the video you agree to the data transfer to YouTube.
Venue
Room D is located in the Museum Quarter at Museumsplatz 1, 1070 Vienna. Access is via Courtyard 8; the room is located on the ground floor. It's not far from the U3 Volkstheater station.
Course instructors
Miriam Shalamun
Miriam is Head of Research and Development at MyPilz and brings extensive expertise in biotechnology and fungal research. During her doctoral studies at the Vienna University of Technology on the topic of "Cellular Signaling in Fungi," she deepened her interest in fungi and their environmental interactions. With her passion for innovative sequencing technologies, she combines molecular biological methods with practical applications in fungal identification.
Valeria Ellena
Valeria holds a doctorate in biotechnology and molecular biology with a particular passion for fungi and their diverse applications. In the course of her scientific work, she has, among other things, optimized fungal strains for industrial use and developed DNA molecules for the targeted detection of fungal spores. Today, she heads the Biotechnology department at MyPilz, where she contributes her molecular biology expertise to applied fungal research.
Funga Foto Fest
Auditorium
