Sydney Phylogenetics Workshop: Lessons from the past 15 years

Simon Ho 

Phylogenetic analysis forms an important component of research in the life sciences, enabling the study of evolutionary relationships, timescales, patterns, and processes. Phylogenetic trees are used in a wide variety of research fields, including molecular ecology, taxonomy and systematics, conservation genetics, and microbiology. Accordingly, there is a strong demand for accessible training in phylogenetic analysis, especially among postgraduate students and other early career researchers. Although there are several regular workshops that provide opportunities for training in phylogenetics, these are predominantly held in Europe and North America, posing logistical and financial barriers for prospective participants in the Southern Hemisphere and Asia-Pacific region. The Sydney Phylogenetics Workshop has aimed to address this gap by offering an annual training opportunity suitable for early career researchers. The workshop blends theory with practical exercises using industry-standard software, while its content has evolved over its 15-year history to meet the changing needs of attendees. In this article, we provide an outline of the content and format of the workshop, the challenges associated with running such an event on a minimal budget, and the measures taken to improve accessibility and reduce environmental impact. We hope that the workshop provides a useful model for organizing effective training opportunities for early career researchers in the life sciences.