Module Overviews
Basics in biology
This module provides an intensive introduction to molecular and
cell biology for students with a background in mathematics and
computing who have not studied tertiary level biology. It is
therefore designed to ensure that students with this profile are
provided with sufficient biological information to be able to follow
the rest of the programme. The module will provide an insight into
basic biological principles and systems, and cover the essentials of
cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics necessary
to understand the biological context of bioinformatics. Biological
themes that appear in subsequent modules as case studies will be
highlighted.
This module will be delivered via a programme of workshops and
directed learning in the two weeks immediately prior to the
commencement of the taught course.
Basics in mathematical statistics and computer science
This module introduces students to a range of skills and facilities that will underpin their future studies. It is delivered through a programme of taught sessions and directed learning, which is completed immediately prior to the commencement of the taught course. The primary content of this module is an introduction to fundamental programming principles, mathematical statistics that will enable students to implement, analyse and test simple programs in practical sessions.
Sequence information analysis
This module covers the basic theory and practical techniques of bioinformatics, with particular focus on the application of bioinformatics to problem solving and experimental design for real biological problems. It aims to provide an understanding of the basic biological issues which bioinformatics seeks to address, and the central role that data plays in bioinformatics. This module will also identify those areas of computing/software engineering which contribute to bioinformatics.
Genome analysis
This module will provide a comprehensive overview and analysis
of:
(i) the theory and practice of genome sequence analysis - Students
will be given knowledge of the molecular issues on which such
analysis is based and the quality of bioinformation they provide.
They will also be introduced to the specialised tools associated
with genome analysis in 'case-study' based workshops.
(ii) expression of the genome - Students will be introduced to the
most commonly used and important methodologies in use to allow
analysis of the transcritpsome and proteosome.
3-D structure and visualisation
The aim of this module is to introduce students to the
programming techniques required for the development of Graphical
Data (1D,2D and 3D), their interfaces and visualisation.
The essentials of multi-tasking and multi-user systems are discussed
with reference to a real-time presentation system, including
hardware and software considerations. Data representation of de
facto, commercial and research types will be covered including file
formats for storage and real-time display.
The use of novel API programming tools is introduced with emphasis
on state-of-the-art systems, including the use of the Leicester
Reality Centre and human computer issues. 2D and 3D representation
tools are also considered: for example Microsoft Visual Studio .NET
GUI techniques or other visualisation software eg Iris Explorer.
Statistics in Genetics
This introduces modern statistical computing and graphics environments, in the context of problems from genetics. Students will gains skills in implementation, application and interpretation of statistical methods in genetics. The lectures will combine statistical methods with instruction about statistical software.
Programming tools
This module introduces object-oriented programming to enable students to design, implement and test programs of moderate complexity. The programming language used in this module is Java, which is an object-oriented language. As well the specific topics covered on this module, students will also reinforce their understanding of fundamental programming techniques that are applicable to programming languages other than Java.
Database construction and information retrieval
Relational database management systems may be extended with Object Oriented features. This module provides an introduction to relational databases via Oracle. The problem of information retrieval is viewed from this perspective but also will look at leading edge approaches to more intelligent use of database by considering appropriate computational intelligence techniques and considering the current status of research in this dynamic new field. Case studies of biological databases will be explored in depth.
Current research topics in bioinformatics
Bioinformatics is playing an important role, facilitating and
advancing research in a wide range of areas in bioscience. The
module will discuss how to carry out bioinformatics research. It
will highlight some of the current research areas where
bioinformatics is being applied both at De Montfort University and
in a wider global context. Examples of current research will be
drawn from both academic and industrial contexts. Examples of how
bioinformatics is helping tackle deadly disease processes will be
extensively discussed, with a particular emphasis on Malaria.