Bioinformatics course for software professionals

Combine Biology and Information Technology as a Software Professional in Bioinformatics Bioinformatics is an exciting new career field that merges biology with information technology and computers. A recent explosion of available biological data types has created an increasing demand, which far exceeds the supply, for skilled bioinformatics specialists with comprehensive training in both biology and software.

The field of Bioinformatics for Software Professionals includes job titles such as: bioinformatics analyst, bioinformatics software developer, bioinformatics research technician, application developer, software developer and database developer. One popular route is the bioinformatics analyst or programmer position. This software professional is responsible for building programs by using computational formulas to determine outcomes based on biological projects or research. Another route is to become a bioinformatics research technician. In this position, you will use sophisticated computer programs to gather, analyze and track data about specific biological functions or characteristics in order to gain a better understanding of complex biological activities. One other popular option is to become a bioinformatics software developer who works with the software development team to provide software solutions that address scientific challenges. This person also participates in design, review, coding, testing, troubleshooting and support for custom developed software solutions. Lastly, a bioinformatics software developer stays up-to-date on current and emerging software development technologies and tools. Employment positions in bioinformatics course for software professionals are found at research centers, universities, private companies and government institutions. Specific employment examples in this province include Ontario health networks, Ontario hospitals and the provincial government. Skills in bioinformatics can also be utilized in the pharmaceutical, agricultural and environmental industries and in all areas of biotechnology. Therefore, the job choices are abundant.

Before becoming a software professional in bioinformatics, you must have the right education.

Centennial College offers a specialized one-year, graduate certificate program in Bioinformatics for Software Professionals. During the duration of the program, students participate in informative and focused courses such as Biochemistry, Statistics and Data Analysis for Bioinformatics, Ethics and Intellectual Property, Developing Bioinformatics Tools and many more. There is also a practical component to the program in the form of a mandatory paid co-op placement. This placement gives students the opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom to their field of choice. In order to participate in the co-op component, students must obtain a minimum GPA 2.5 or above.

Making the Bioinformatics for Software Professionals offering even more appealing is the fact that it is the first program in Canada to provide 12 months of concentrated training that results in a post-degree bioinformatics certificate targeted to students with existing software backgrounds.

Applicants to the Bioinformatics for Software Professionals program must submit an official transcript demonstrating proof of successful completion of a four-year degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering or related discipline, from an accredited college or university. They are also expected to submit a resume.

View Source: http://www.centennialcollege.ca/Programs/ProgramOverview.aspx?Calendar=20102011&Program=3613