The National Microbiome Data Collaborative (NMDC) aims to connect and engage the microbiome research community to unlock new possibilities in microbiome data science. To further this mission, the NMDC has developed extensive outreach, engagement, and educational strategies and activities. The NMDC has recently developed an environmental microbiome science certificate program for undergraduate students interested in microbiome research. The curriculum includes modules to further the students’ technical knowledge as well as their practical and professional skills. This educational effort has already and will continue to incorporate content and feedback from various partnering organizations and groups including the Microbiome Centers Consortium, the NMDC Champions, the American Society for Microbiology, as well as individual microbiome scientists and educators. This educational content is aimed at promoting practical skills to empower the next generation of microbiome researchers.
