Genomics foundation course for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians (launch event)

About this event

This course will build confidence in genomics for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, covering the science and interpreting results, through to ethics and genomics-informed medicines optimisation.  

The modules have been designed for all pharmacists and pharmacy technicians working in hospital and generalist settings.

• Module 1:
  Tuesday 08 September, 3pm – 5pm, attendance at Module 1 in its entirety is mandatory in order to progress to subsequent modules.
• Module 2:
  Tuesday 06 October, 3pm – 5pm
• Module 3:
  Tuesday 03 November, 3pm – 5pm

Only minimal preparation is required before attending the first module. Pre-reading materials will be provided in a resource booklet sent to participants 10–14 days in advance. It is important to review these materials, as they include essential content that may not be covered in detail during the sessions, and tutors will assume that you have read them.

Delegates are expected to actively participate in the case studies and discussions during the online sessions. Access to a device with a microphone and camera are required for modules 2 and 3.

Certificate of attendance

Participants will receive a certificate of attendance detailing each module attended.

Modules covered

Module 1

This module covers the fundamentals; including the science behind genomics, how sequence can be disrupted and how this impacts on what we see in patients, and how genetics and environment interact. We will also cover polygenic risk scores, and the types and relative advantages/disadvantages of various sequencing technologies.

After this module, attendees should be able to:

• Describe fundamental concepts of DNA, RNA and protein, and the basics of transcription and translation
• Discuss the contribution of genetic variation to disease states and common disease
• Describe the advantages and disadvantages of different types of genetic sequencing technologies

Module 2

This module covers Genomics-Informed Medicines Optimisation, how genomics can improve precision in diagnosis and treatment selection.  Pharmacogenomics and its role in clinical practice, focusing on how genetic variation influences drug metabolism (ADME), and can be used to predict and avoid adverse drug reactions.  It introduces key resources such as the UKCPA Handbook of Pharmacogenomics, ClinPGx, Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium, and the Dutch Pharmacogenetics Working Group, and highlights how to identify pharmacogenomic information in medicines documentation. The module also covers genomics in medicines safety and key NHS genomics policies, and outlines the commissioning landscape for pharmacogenomics.

After this module, attendees should be able to:

• Describe the breadth of Genomics-Informed Medicines Optimisation
• Name reference sources for pharmacogenomics and relative advantages/disadvantages of each

Module 3

This module covers developing skills in assessing when pharmacogenomic testing is indicated and advising on appropriate NHS-commissioned tests, while recognising the strengths and limitations of different testing methods and direct-to-consumer options. It also focuses on effective patient communication, supporting informed, non-directive discussions about risks, benefits, and family implications, alongside key ethical considerations such as consent, confidentiality, and the Code on Genetic Testing and Insurance agreed between HM Government and the Association of British Insurers.

After this module, attendees should be able to:

• Describe models of pharmacogenomics testing, including direct to consumer, NHS, and Point of Care testing
• Outline some of the ethical considerations around genomic testing
• Discuss genomic concepts with patients

Booking information

Reservation will close at midnight on Monday 24 August 2026, or earlier if maximum capacity is reached.  However, should this course not reach its minimum number, the UKCPA reserves the right to cancel the event.

If you are not a member or guest account holder of the UKCPA but wish to attend this course, your guest account or membership application must be completed at least 10 working days in advance of the registration deadline.  Please note that the administration and activation of membership or guest accounts can take up to 7 working days, longer during periods of office closure.

This is a launch event.  Delegates will be asked to feedback on the content and design to further enhance future courses.  This event is therefore offered at a special launch price.

Additional support

Once you have completed Module 1, you will be added to the UKCPA genomics course private forum on the UKCPA portal. This is a private discussion and support area exclusively for practitioners who have attended the UKCPA genomics courses. You’ll be able to ask questions, post responses, continue discussions around the patient cases you’ve seen, and access resources for your ongoing development.