Presentation

● Course Features:

Bioinformatics is now a well-established discipline with widely recognized and in-demand skills in both the national and international job markets, in public and private sectors. Historically developed from the sequencing of model organisms’ genomes—especially the human genome in the 1990s—Bioinformatics has become structurally embedded in basic research in genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology, as well as in more applied biomedical research. This evolution requires a close peer-to-peer collaboration between biologists/medical professionals and data analysis experts (bioinformaticians).

The field is primarily concerned with:

  • Providing mathematical and statistical models to analyze and interpret biomolecular experimental data. A key focus is the integration of massive datasets (big data) from highly heterogeneous sources (omics technologies) to identify the “key” elements underlying a specific biological process of interest to biologists or medical professionals.

  • Developing computational models and methods for the analysis of biological sequences and gene expression data (genome, transcriptome, proteome, epigenetic profiles, post-transcriptional and post-translational modifications, genomic localization of proteins, genetic polymorphisms, RNA/DNA editing, etc.) to detect phylogenetic similarities/differences and mutations relevant, for example, to personalized medical diagnosis and treatment (e.g., cancer, vaccines, genetic diseases).

  • Organizing integrated databases and analysis platforms to improve accessibility and presentation of biomolecular data.

  • Analyzing and predicting the structural and functional aspects of macromolecules and their interactions with ligands and drugs, including using Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence techniques.

In this context, a “new alliance” between bioinformatics (computer-based bioengineering), biology, chemistry, and medicine is of strategic importance to address the challenges posed by the rapid development of biomolecular technologies.

● Educational Objectives and Related Career Profiles:

The goal of the program is to provide foundational training for Bioinformaticians, enabling them to work professionally upon graduation in various applied fields, while also preparing them with a solid background to pursue Master’s degrees and specialized programs in bioinformatics, biomedical statistics, and computer science. Alternatively, students may choose to pursue advanced degrees in biomedical fields where they can apply their expertise in specific research areas.

● Admission Process:

Locally restricted enrollment through a selective test (English Tolc-F).

● Curriculum:

The program spans three academic years:

  • First year: Foundational courses for 60 ECTS credits in mathematics, physics, chemistry, cell biology, statistics, and computer science.

  • Second year: Courses in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, microbiology, immunology, and bioinformatics for 60 ECTS credits.

  • Third year: Courses in bioethics, bioinformatics, genomics, and a selection of specialized elective exams (42 ECTS), along with 18 ECTS dedicated to a professional internship linked to the final thesis, language skills, and other training relevant to the job market.

● International Opportunities:

The program includes Erasmus exchange agreements with:

  • San Jorge University (Zaragoza)

  • University of Santiago de Compostela

  • University of Leuven

  • Catholic University of Lille

These institutions offer Bachelor-level courses with a focus on Bioinformatics. Several students have participated in the Erasmus program over the past three years.
Additionally, we have organized a joint Bioinformatics Summer School with the Department of Biochemical Sciences at Sapienza University and the University of Dallas (USA), which was held in June 2023 and is scheduled again for June 2024.

● Career Prospects and Further Education Opportunities:

There is already active demand for our graduates as bioinformatics technicians in research institutes, hospitals, and universities. Nonetheless, most graduates continue their education in Master’s or advanced programs in Bioinformatics (e.g., Master in Computational Biology at the University of Trento; MSc in Bioinformatics at the University of Rome Tor Vergata; Master in Biomedical Omics at the University of Milan) or in Biology/Biotechnology (e.g., MSc in Genetics and Molecular Biology at Sapienza; MSc in Biochemistry at Sapienza).