| Over the past 100+ years, geneticists and molecular biologists have studied how hereditary information is passed from one generation to the next. The discovery of chromosomes, DNA structure, and mechanism of protein synthesis has culminated in the generation of a rough draft sequence of the entire human genome. Because of this, biology in the 21st century will no longer be purely laboratory-based, but will become an information-based science as well. Bioinformatics is an area of science that incorporates computational approaches to solving biological problems. Bioinformaticists must organize a phenomenal amount of biological sequence information. The information may be used to identify how genetic information is related, and the laboratory scientist can design experiments to test these connections. Laboratory scientists, in turn, generate enormous amounts of data that Bioinformaticists must organize and make available to other biologists around the world. This degree and certificate are the result of collaboration between the CTIS and BIO/Health divisions. It is a joint offering.
The field of Bioinformatics is rapidly evolving and growing. New methods of storing and accessing data are needed for Biologists to make efficient use of the data. Students who complete this certificate will be suitable for entry-level positions in biotech or pharmaceutical companies that use computers to analyze biological data.
Should you have questions, please contact the Biology and Health Sciences Division or program director.
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Additional Contact Information
If you have questions regarding course requirements, you may call
- Celeste Carter, Director, (650) 949-7041
- BH Division office, Room 5211
- *CTIS Division office, (650) 949-7236
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