About CRP
The CRP extends the use of Covary, a machine learning–powered, alignment-free, translation-aware sequence analysis platform developed by a Filipino for Filipinos.
CRP aims to expand the research capacity of Filipino students, scholars, and professionals by providing access to modern AI-driven tools typically available only in advanced genomics and bioinformatics laboratories. Through guided, independent research, participants develop practical experience in computational biology, genomics, and phylogenetics.
Mission
The CRP was created to cultivate a new generation of Filipino researchers capable of applying machine learning and AI-powered tools in life science research — raising national research competence and enabling the country to engage and compete in the rapidly advancing global scientific landscape.
Program objectives
What CRP sets out to do
Introduce researchers to modern AI-driven approaches in genomics, phylogenetics, evolutionary biology, metagenomics, and forensic genetics using Covary's alignment-free, ML-based system.
Strengthen national research capacity by empowering students and researchers with tools, workflows, and hands-on experience that bridge local research gaps.
Support academic outputs including theses, dissertations, research projects, and laboratory activities that benefit from computational sequence analysis.
Promote accessible, remote, flexible learning — enabling participation regardless of geographic or institutional limitations.
Develop real-world research skills by guiding participants through structured syllabi, exercises, and independent experimentation.
Advance the Philippines' standing in STEM innovation, helping local researchers stay aligned with global trends in AI-powered biology and computational science.
Eligibility
Who can participate?
Undergraduate students
Working on theses, capstone projects, or special problems in biology, biotechnology, bioinformatics, forensic science, pharmacy, agriculture, public health, or related fields.
Graduate students
Conducting research for MS/MA or PhD theses in life sciences, bioinformatics, or molecular biology, seeking access to an ML-driven analytical workflow.
Researchers & early-career scientists
Individuals working in public or private laboratories, LGUs, academe, or research centers who want to incorporate alignment-free and AI-based approaches.
Faculty members & advisers
Those looking for new tools for their research groups or to recommend a pipeline for their students' thesis development.
Transitioning professionals
Industry workers, analysts, or self-taught learners who want experience in computational biology without needing laboratory access.
Why join?
Benefits of participating
Use findings for thesis
Outputs generated during the program can be used for undergraduate theses, graduate theses, capstone requirements, independent studies, and lab-based publications (with proper attribution).
Unrestricted Covary access
You will get unrestricted permission and access to use Covary during your participation — a first-of-its-kind toolkit not integrated in any Philippine institution.
Remote, at your own pace
Study and conduct analyses at home while keeping your work/school/life errands uninterrupted. Coaching and feedback are provided without a classroom structure.
Mentorship from practitioners
Work directly with researchers who actively apply artificial intelligence and machine learning in genomics, phylogenetics, and computational biology.
Build national capacity
Become part of a movement to strengthen the Philippines' scientific and technological capability in genomics, public health, and advanced computational science.
National genomic literacy platform
Join the first-of-its-kind initiative in the country that brings together genomics, machine learning, and computational biology in an accessible environment.
Program information
- Pre-registration is currently closed. Program ran from January – April 2026.
- This is not an internship, job, employment, or classroom-type course — it is an independent research affiliation.
- Participation is fully remote; you may work from anywhere with internet access.
- You must be comfortable working with research questions in topics covered by Covary research.
- Coaching/support is provided occasionally (mostly on weekends).
- Participants must purchase a Covary license to use Covary for their research.
- Research outputs may be used for your thesis or academic requirements, subject to your institution's rules.