Human Genomics Research Badge

Human Genomics Badge
For More Information

For more information, please email Yasheca Ebanks at yebanks@shp.rutgers.edu.

For more information on Badging, please see the Microcredentialing and Digital Badging at Rutgers University and Digital Badges at RBHS.

Description of the Human Genomics Research Badge

This training series introduces core genetic concepts relevant to human genomic research. Through asynchronous lectures and quizzes, participants build the foundational knowledge needed to design or support studies that include a genomic component. The series is intended for investigators considering adding genomics to a research project, as well as study staff involved in participant recruitment.

Learners who complete the series earn a digital badge that reflects the skills and competencies gained. To receive the badge, participants must demonstrate proficiency across four domains through module‑based assessments. The badge is jointly issued by Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences and the New Jersey Alliance for Clinical and Translational Science (NJACTS).

The course is offered asynchronously five times per year and remains open for 6 weeks. The training and badge fee is $25 per participant. Individuals interested in enrolling should contact Yasheca Ebanks at yebanks@shp.rutgers.edu.

Learners are assessed with a quiz at the end of each module of the 4 modules and must earn a minimum score of 80% on each assessment before progressing to the next module. Each module is estimated to take between 1.5 to 3 hours to complete depending on the knowledge base the participant comes in with. 

Module 1: Genetic Epidemiology Overview

These presentations introduce how different human genomic research studies evaluate whether a trait is genetically influenced and the strength of supporting evidence.

Module 2: Genetic Testing and Genetic Study Ascertainment

These presentations review the types of genetic testing, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), and approaches for discussing genomic testing with patients.

Module 3: Genomic Human Research Recruitment

These presentations cover the recruitment processes for genomic studies, including pedigree construction, informed consent, study enrollment, and common questions raised by potential participants.

Module 4: Genetic Study Designs in Humans

These presentations provide an overview of the major genomic study designs, including genome‑wide association studies (GWAS), polygenic risk score analyses, rare variant studies, copy number variant studies, transcriptomics, and Mendelian randomization.

Skills Tags

Genetics, Genetic Epidemiology, Genetic Research Studies, Informed Consent, Genetic Study Designs, and GINA

2026-2027 Cohort Schedule

2026-2027 Academic Cohort Schedule

Start Date

End Date 

Cohort #1  
8/3/2026 9/14/2026
Cohort #2  
10/5/2026 11/16/2026
Cohort #3  
2/1/2027 3/15/2027
Cohort #4  
4/5/2027 5/17/2027
Cohort #5  
6/7/2027 7/19/2027

For further information on the educational initiatives of the New Jersey Alliance in Clinical and Translational Science (NJ ACTS) at Rutgers University, contact Yasheca Ebanks, NJ ACTS Program Manager

Course Fees

The training and badge fee is $25 per participant.

Individuals interested in enrolling should contact Yasheca Ebanks at yebanks@shp.rutgers.edu.