Last updated: 04-13-2022

Assay Guidance Workshop —
November 18-19, 2020

This two-day virtual workshop hosted by NCATS Assay Guidance Manual (AGM) covered a broad range of critical concepts underlying assay development and implementation for high-throughput screening and lead discovery projects. This workshop was designed to disseminate best practices for the development and implementation of robust assay methods. It is particularly relevant for researchers developing molecular probes or clinical candidates. Many of the workshop instructors have 20 to 30 years of experience in the field of drug discovery and share information not readily found in a classroom or published material outside of the AGM. This workshop also covered emerging technologies and modalities in drug discovery, including the use of stem cells, antibody therapeutics, DNA-encoded libraries, and advances in COVID-19 therapeutics.

Goals and Objectives

The goal of the AGM workshop series is to help participants design and implement robust assays in early translation research by providing them a broad, practical perspective on assay development and data analysis. Our aim is to help participants improve their research projects involving drug discovery and know where to find further information; identify reagents, methods and instrumentation that are well suited to robust assays; and develop robust assays and the required counter and secondary assays for targets of interest. The workshops also provide participants with broad overviews and practical perspectives on new and emerging modalities in drug discovery.

View the agenda (PDF - 267KB)


Spotlight Video

Welcome to the AGM Workshop

Christopher P. Austin, M.D.

Director

National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)

In his welcome address, Dr. Austin introduces the audience to NCATS, its mission to conduct and disseminate translational science, and to the Assay Guidance Manual (AGM). Dr. Austin also highlights the upcoming events on the AGM calendar.


Day 1

Watch all of the workshop videos from Day 1.


Day 2

Watch all of the workshop videos from Day 2.