MSc Bioinformatics

Course overview

As biological sciences have become more data driven, bioinformatics is now central to modern biological research, from genetics, nutrition and epidemiology to ecology, neuroscience and biomedicine.

This programme teaches you how to manage and manipulate large datasets to reveal new insights in biological sciences. You get intensive training in a computer-based approach to biological research. You develop the computational and analytical understanding necessary as a platform for processing biological data. This involves the appreciation of biochemistry and molecular biology, together with IT and specialist skills in computer programming, data analysis, statistics and computational biology for multidisciplinary careers in research.

The North East, particularly, the Teesside region, is an important regional, national and international hub for the Life Science Sector, with both well established (FujiFilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, GlaxoSmithKline, Hart Biologicals) and emergent companies (Absolute Antibodies, StreamBio, Hexis Labs, Quantum Dx). Next to CPI’s National Biologics Manufacturing Centre and our Centre for Professional and Executive Development, the University’s National Horizons Centre (NHC) is at the heart of an ecosystem of life science excellence.This course is taught at our National Horizons Centre at the University’s Darlington campus. This £22m purpose-built biosciences research, education and training facility is a focal point for the growing regional biosciences community. The course develops comprehensive knowledge and understanding of bioinformatics in the 21st century. It offers you the unique opportunity participate in a research-intensive course, via a combination of taught modules and an in-depth research project, utilising the NHC e centre’s imaginative design includes a blend of teaching, learning and collaboration spaces, hi-tech laboratories and a state-of-the-art computing suite. Open spaces provide students and businesses with the tools for project development using data analytics, modelling and simulation, visualisation and process improvement and e NHC also offers analytical and digital infrastructure supporting basic and applied research in the biosciences and across disciplinary boundaries, aligned to academic excellence and industry needs. The NHC will expose students to a significant internationally- competitive research and innovation capability that is responsive and engaged with industry needs in the bioscience e curriculum engages students in realistic research-based activities. Many of the research projects involve students working as part of a research team including the AipBAND (An Integrated Platform for Developing Brain Cancer Diagnostic Techniques) project.

How you are assessed:

You are assessed on subject knowledge, independent thought and skills acquisition through formative and summative assessment.

Modules are assessed by a variety of methods including examination and in-course assessment with some utilising other approaches such as, oral presentations, technical interviews and technical reports alongside literature surveys, evaluations and summaries.

You are presented with an assessment schedule providing details of the submission deadlines for summative assessments.

Career opportunities:

Our bioinformatics programme equips you with a strong foundation for further PhD research or for prospective employment. There is an increasing demand for bioinformatics skills across the biotechnology, life sciences and pharmaceutical sectors. The ability to manage, analyse, integrate and visualise big data using technologies such as Python and R is also applicable to fields including software development, data analytics and finance.