Bioinformatics and Computational Biology (BSc) Program at a Glance

Bioinformatics and Computational Biology (BICB) is a rapidly expanding field that focuses on the analysis of biological data and the simulation of biological processes. It requires both an understanding of molecular biology and of computational algorithms and approaches to analyse biological data.

To ensure a comprehensive understanding of both molecular biology and computational methods the major starts with basic courses in mathematics, chemistry, computer science and biochemistry & cell biology in the first year. Advanced courses in computer science and biochemistry & cell biology are offered to extend this concept in the second year. An overview on bioinformatics is given by the BICB I and II lectures and lab courses in the second year. Contact to the core BICB topics over the first year is maintained by an informal seminar meeting (Monday afternoons), which takes place several times per semester and is announced separately.

The courses include bioinformatics subjects ranging from the analysis of DNA and protein sequences, modeling and analysis of biological networks to the simulation of the structure and dynamics of biomolecules. These courses give a comprehensive overview of bioinformatics tools that are widely used in academic and industrial research in the area of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology. Individual research projects prepare and train the students to work to a large degree independently on typical bioinformatics topics. Further specialization in the direction of molecule and systems design, biophysics, neurobiology and biotechnology is possible by supplementing the courses with electives in biochemistry, cell biology, and computational sciences. An internship at an institution outside of Jacobs University further broadens the bioinformatics studies and promotes the student’s ability to work independently on scientific projects and to tackle bioinformatics problems.

During the first year, general (introductory) lectures and lab courses are mandatory. As outlined in the handbook, the students select more courses from a variety of electives from the School of Engineering and Science (SES) or from the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS). In addition, so-called University Studies Courses (USCs) have to be selected which are taught by professors from both Schools. They are unique in that here perspectives from apparently different areas of science are brought together.

For a full listing of the Course Requirements of the Undergraduate BICB Program please see the program handbook. 
 
See also the Program Handbook for the course requirements for students matriculated in the year:
2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003

Prof. Dr. Marc Hütt
Computational Systems Biology
Prof. Dr. Frank Oliver Glöckner
Bioinformatics
Prof. Dr. Andreas Birk
Computer Science
Prof. Dr. Peter Oswald
Mathematics
Prof. Dr. Mathias Winterhalter
Biophysics

Analysis and modeling of biological data is of increasing importance in all areas of the life sciences. Both in academia and industry there is a strong demand for researchers who work at the interface of biology and computer science.

A successful career in bioinformatics, either in research or in industry, requires mastering both the biological and the computer science perspective on the topics at hand. Our students learn combining these perspectives. They have a solid basis for future work, both in industry and in science. The paths of many of our graduates lead to prestigious master programs at leading universities throughout the world.