This is a two-year graduate programme taught jointly at the Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences and the Faculty of Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science.

Bioinformatics combines approaches from computer science, statistics and mathematics to analyse data produced through life science research.

Is the program for you??

• Do you want to research human and microbial bioinformatics?

• Would you like to acquire a broad knowledge of the key areas of bioinformatics?

• Do you want to learn to solve methodological challenges?

• Do you enjoy designing new computer programs or mathematical models in order to answer questions, e.g. about clinical conditions in humans?

• Are you interested in genetic expression?

What is the study about?

Bioinformatics is a subject that was developed in the wake of genetics research aimed at sequencing human DNA.

This programme explores bioinformatics in both humans and microorganisms, methodology design, and data analysis.

Programme structure

The programme is made up of courses and a final project.

The following are mandatory courses:

• Research in molecular biology and biochemistry

• Algorithms in bioinformatics

• Introduction to research studies and the scientific community

• Genomics and bioinformatics

Elective courses are offered in mathematics, computer science or biology, e.g. subjects such as programming, statistics, molecular biology or human genetics, to suit the student's interests.

Course topics include:

Designing computer programs or mathematical models to seek answers to questions about issues such as:

• Human medical conditions

• Cell physiology

• Ecosystems, including ecosystems inside our bodies

• Organisation of teaching

Courses are generally taught in Icelandic but this is subject to change if there are international students on the course.

Main objectives

After completing the programme, students should, for example:

• have acquired a broad knowledge of the key areas of bioinformatics, methodology design, and the development and properties of databases. They should be familiar with the main recording formats and bioinformatics tools.

• be able to work with a range of bioinformatics data and types of records.

• be able to independently analyse bioinformatics data in order to answer specific research questions, resolve methodological problems and adapt new methods, within a specific research topic.

Other

Students must select a final project and academic supervisor in the first year.

Completing this degree allows you to apply for doctoral studies.

• See doctoral programmes at the School of Engineering and Natural Sciences

• See all doctoral programmes at the University of Iceland.