Future needs are met with a new Master’s in bioinformatics
In autumn 2025, the faculty will launch a new Master’s Programme in Bioinformatics. The programme aims to meet the needs arising as technology evolves and the datasets from different experiments grow ever larger. “In an increasingly digitalised world, we need people who can use new analytical tools to draw meaningful biological conclusions,” says programme coordinator Jonas Warringer.
A BIOINFORMATICIAN is an expert in processing and analysing large biological datasets. One example is DNA sequencing: human DNA consists of six billion base pairs in each cell, and every human body is made up of a hundred trillion cells.
“This huge amount of information is difficult to handle using traditional methods, and requires a different approach,” explains Jonas.
THE MASTER’S PROGRAMME in Bioinformatics is brand new, and the first cohort will start this autumn. The programme is aimed primarily at students with a bachelor’s degree in biology or molecular biology, but students from other life science bachelor’s programmes may also be offered a place. During the first year, students will take advanced courses in bioinformatics, evolutionary genomics and systems biology, before completing a degree project during the second year. No previous knowledge of programming is needed.
The programme is suitable for students who are more interested in analysing and interpretating data from DNA, RNA, protein and other biomolecules, rather than experimental laboratory work,” he continues.
THE IDEA IS that students will gain the skills needed to work in healthcare as hospital geneticists, or as bioinformaticians within areas such as food production, forensic medicine or the forest industry.
“There is a growing need for hospital geneticists, as well as for bioinformaticians within the private sector.”
ANOTHER MASTER’S programme that will undergo changes this autumn is the Master’s Programme in Conservation. The programme will focus more clearly on the built environment. Based on concrete conservation practices and strategic planning processes, the master’s students will learn more about buildings, built environments, and urban and cultural landscapes. The first year includes several field-based courses, while the second year provides the opportunity for individual in-depth studies.
“The Master’s programme may be of interest to many students,” says programme coordinator Jennie Sjöholm. “This includes those who are currently studying for a bachelor’s degree in conservation, as well as those with a background in related subjects such as architecture, architectural history, ethnology, art history or economic history. The programme is also suitable for those who have worked for a few years and want to deepen their knowledge within the field of conservation.”
Text: Camilla Persson
Photo: Malin Arnesson
Bionformatics
Scope: 2 years.
Type of education: Master’s programme.
Applications for the autumn programme closed on 15 April, with a total of 74 applicants for the 24 available places.
Are you an alumnus with experience of bioinformatics who would be willing to share their experiences with the students on the programme? If so, please contact the study guidance team:
- Contact study guidance team: Study counselling svl.molbio@cmb.gu.se
- Link to Programme