BHKi

About BHKi

Bioinformatics is a multidisciplinary field, and requires expertise in computer technology, biology, statistics and mathematics. Training in bioinformatics does not simply require formal training in each of these disciplines, but also the integration of this knowledge and coherent application thereof to problems in biology. Research in modern biology, similarly, requires cross application of knowledge in an integrated fashion. The multidisciplinary nature of bioinformatics involves integration of various disciplines such as computer science, biology, statistics and mathematics.Therefore, to address the requirement for multidisciplinary training in bioinformatics, the establishment of new training programs that combine the required constituent fields are needed. To nurture and promote bioinformatics research will require an organizational entity that can facilitate the integration of these disciplines, promote the integration of skills and allow productive intellectual exchange and discussion in addressing bioinformatics questions. In other words, an entity that can facilitate the formation of a critical mass in bioinformatics research expertise.The Bioinformatics Hub of Kenya represents such an entity that can develop and manage training in bioinformatics and computational biology and a space in which research in bioinformatics is practiced.

Get Started!

BHKi Structure

The hub is comprised of the Advisory commitee, Steering committee, Mentors and Members.The structure of the BHK is as shown below. The Steering Committee, made up of at least five members who are responsible for the functioning of the hub. The Steering Committee reports to the Advisory Committee which plays an oversight role for the hub.The Advisory Committee with an interest in mentorship will serve as Mentors as well as Guest Speakers when presenting topics and research work to the hub.The Hub will coordinate with the Steering committee in running present bioinformatics projects. The Hub will be made up of Master’s students in Bioinformatics and related fields and aspiring bioinformaticians.

Key Activities

Training
Networking
Peer learning
Outreach events

Who can be a member?

We have two types of memberships:

Full members
Associate members

Full Members

Members should have at least enrolled for a master’s degree in Bioinformatics, Data Science or its equivalent.The members are expected to participate in assigned projects, mentor aspiring bioinformaticians, do presentations on their completed or ongoing projects, attend meet ups and trainings and attend journals clubs.

Benefits

Attend lectures, meet-ups, journal clubs and trainings.
Improve on skills such as presentation, grant writing, proposal writing and manuscript writing.
Peer learning and training.
Networking and creating connections.
Exposure to established bioinformaticians and learning advanced bioinformatics skills.
Receiving mentorship and guidance.
Attending community outreach activities and team buiding events.

Associate Members

These are aspiring bioinformaticians who include undergraduates, diploma students and researchers with keen interest in Bioinformatics. They should be willing to follow the rules and regulations of the hub and be able to perform tasks assigned to them.

Benefits

Participate in assigned projects and learning activities.
Attend meet ups and trainings.
Attend journals clubs.
Get assistance on areas of interest.

Code of Conduct

All members of BHK are expected to treat each other with respect and courtesy. All interactions in meet-ups, training and workshops should be professional regardless of platform; either in person or online or in outreach events and retreats organized by the hub. To exercise a positive and professional environment we advise our members to practice the following behaviors;

Expected Behaviour (Dos)

Be respectful amongst members at all levels of membership.
Respect different opinions and gracefully accept constructive feedback
When handling research projects given by the hub, always leave room for improvement and invite positive criticism
In meetings, members are expected to use welcoming language and encourage interactions among peers.
Focus on the main goals of the hub.
Contact the steering committee immediately to report any situation that causes you or other members any kinds of discomfort in our community.There is an option of reporting anonymously and the steering committee will keep all reports confidential to prevent retaliation.

Unaccepted Behavior (Don’ts)

Verbal or written comments that exclude people on the basis of membership to this community or a specific group.
Causing members discomfort or fear for their safety especially through stalking, intimidation, harassment or bullying.
Using harsh or sexual language, racist or inappropriate jokes.
Sexual or violent display of images or any media content in any community forums.

To avoid any situation that breaches our Code of Conduct, we advise our members to not post anything that doesn’t pertain to the hub on our online platform (Slack) or community forum without any approval from the community organisers.

Members who indulge in unacceptable behavior will be summoned personally by a member of the steering committee and will be asked to stop immediately. In case of an event (training, meet-up or workshop), members who breach our Code of Conduct will be immediately asked by the organisers to leave the event and can be banned from three consecutive events based on the severity of their actions.

Our members’ welfare is extremely important to us. To ensure this, we invite our members to uphold our Code of Conduct and help us create a community that is safe and welcoming for everyone.

NB: In times of conflict of interest, the member should notify the steering committee so that they can act appropriately.

Let's Get In Touch!

Give us a call or send us an email and we will get back to you as soon as possible!

Organizing Secretariat

E-Mail

Twitter

Git hub