Increasingly, ecological questions are being addressed using next-generation sequencing technology. For example, we can now identify bacteria, fungi, viruses, and archaea from diverse habitats such as soils, lakes, and oceans. These techniques can be used for identifying spatial and temporal patterns of community composition, or can be used in an experimental context to test hypotheses. However, next-generation sequencing technology can appear to have a steep learning curve, which can represent a challenge to ecologists that are not traditionally trained in molecular or computational biology. This workshop will focus on three aspects of using next-generation sequencing: 1) types of questions that can be addressed using sequence-based approaches, 2) some of the existing and emerging sequencing technology that is available for addressing ecologically based questions, and 3) tools and platforms for managing and analyzing sequence data for ecological projects. The workshop will consist of short tutorials by experts in the field, demonstration of some computation tools, and time for group discussions. Lunch will not be served, bring your own lunch!