Aims

By applying scientific methodologies from mathematics, statistics and computer science the course gives basic knowledge about bioinformatics and its relation to molecular and evolutionary processes that form biological sequences (proteins and DNA). With theories from such processes students should get a comprehension about and skills in the usage of computer based algorithms for the analysis of sequences and complete genomes.

Content

Historical review of methods and techniques within the areas of bioinformatics and molecular biology. International databases and the storage of biological information. Methods for the extraction of information from databases. The organisation of the human genome. The role of bioinformatics within the pharmaceutical industry and the society. Ethical issues concerning accessibility of biological data. During the first part of the course theories and basic concepts within bioinformatics are presented. Software for the analysis of genes, proteins and whole genomes are gradually introduced during the course. Biological applications are illustrated with examples from current research. The course organisation is built like a genome project where raw data are sequentially analysed using the tools of bioinformatics.