BMS2062 - Introduction to bioinformatics - 2018

Bioinformatics unites the major advances in biology, biochemistry and the biomedical sciences with those in computing, bioinformatics and networking. The unit covers the application of the internet to biomedical sciences; organisation and uses of scientific databases; use of computational methods in genomics and proteomics; fundamentals of molecular modelling; analysis and presentation of biomedical data; and communication of biomedical data using information technology.

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. Analyse DNA and RNA sequences and predict gene products
2. Identify conserved features in sequences and structures that define the function of macromolecules
3. Navigate databases to identify sequences and data on mutations associated with disease.
4. Construct and analyse sequence alignments, molecular phylogeny and molecular models of proteins and design strategies to assess gene function by reverse genetics.
5. Interpret structural and functional effects of mutations and predict/state molecular mechanisms underlying the resulting disease.
6. Investigate and communicate, verbally and through writing, the applications of bioinformatics to areas of biomedical science including the development of drugs and therapeutics

• In-semester theory tests (13%)
• Final exam (40%) (Hurdle)
• Projects and assignments (47%) (Hurdle)

Hurdle requirements: a pass grade in the final exam must be obtained to pass the unit. A pass in the projects and assignments must also be obtained to pass the unit.

2 Lectures per week, 1 three hour practical session per week.

See also Unit timetable information

Biomedical science