Generating DNA barcodes, metabarcoding datasets, or reference genomes takes a great deal of fieldwork, lab work, and curation. Too often, though, the data stay in a repository without a publication that gives the work visibility, credit, and a citable record. At BgBOL, we encourage everyone in our community to take that final step. That's why we're pleased to share this upcoming training opportunity.

On 8 December 2026 (10:00–14:00 CET), the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is hosting an online course on turning DNA-based biodiversity outputs into peer-reviewed, citable, and FAIR publications. The course is led by Scott Edmunds, Stefaniya Kamenova, and Teodor Georgiev of Sofia-based Pensoft Publishers. Participants will learn how data papers and genome reports work and how to choose the right article type and journal for their data. They will also practise preparing sequence, sample, and occurrence data with proper accessions, metadata, and licences. The hands-on session uses Pensoft's ARPHA and ORPHO platforms, including automated data import from BOLD, GBIF/IPT, and ENA. The trainers will also explain what editors and reviewers look for, so participants can avoid the most common reasons for rejection.

The course is aimed at researchers at any career stage who have never published a data paper or genome report. That includes national node coordinators, collection data managers, and researchers planning to apply for BGE+ cascade funding. Places are limited to 20. Applicants who already have datasets ready to publish will be given priority. The course is taught in English, and participants receive a certificate of attendance.

Application deadline: 15 November 2026. Apply here. For questions, contact Stefaniya Kamenova at s.kamenova@pensoft.net.

If you hold barcode data for Bulgarian taxa that haven't been published yet, this is an excellent chance to get them into print. We'd be glad to hear from BgBOL members who take part.