Student Comments
Bioinformatics is the field of Biology, in which use of computer
technology to the management of biological data. The information
technologies are used to gather, store, analyse and integrate
biological and genetic molecules information. Then these information
are applied to life science research. My background is biological
science; therefore, it was important for me to do such a course
which can enhance my capability in biological science in digital
era.
Bioinformatics generally accept students from different background.
The course comprised of various aspect of biology and information
technology. The one year course taught me various modules such as
database management system, which was studied to understand the
design and management aspect of the biological data. Another
analytical tool MATLAB is widely used tool kit to analysed protein
and genome data. I had lots of opportunity to learn analysis
methods, tools and techniques and experience through practical work
provided by the lecturers. This will provide me bases for golden
carrier opportunity, future job search and confidence in my area
including computer technology. The 3D modelling and visualisation
module helped me to gain understanding of 3D model of the biological
molecules, which can help me in future to enhance my skills in the
biological molecules 3D modelling for drug interaction and design.
Many people refer the bioinformatics as “Computational Biology” this
all about doing biological research using an information technology
instead of a pipette. On another hand the bioinformatics help to
design analysis tools for biological molecules. These two fields are
not distinct and overlap a fair amount therefore opportunity to get
good job with five figures salary.
My experiences and thoughts about this course are; this course
offered very high standard taught by the leading experienced and
knowledgeable lectures. I highly recommended the course to all
biology, biomedical, and computer science students with a strong
interest in field of research, bio-medical and bio-health. All
lecturers did an amazing job to educate me throughout the year, both
in terms of the underlying science in biology and computer science
and in term of practical tools application, techniques and on-line
resources. I was impressed throughout the year with their
willingness and ability to convey excitement, enthusiasm and
knowledge in a way that I could grasp. It was a great opportunity to
work in team and lecturer as well as diversity of backgrounds and
interests was an unexpected bonus.
The above are my thought on a bioinformatics career. Bear in mind
that I am only MSc student for one year, there are many opportunity
other than that. In essence, if any one like computer, biology and
solving research problems, then bioinformatics is probably worth a
go. If anyone is interested in a carrier in a modern life science
then this course will help to boost their knowledge of computer
science and biology and build the basis of their career.
The comments are from Malde Gorania, who studied Bioinformatics with us during 2006--2007 and graduated with a distinction.