BENA2008 Introduction to Bioinformatics (3 cr)

Open the course unit brochure on Sisu
Study level:
Intermediate studies
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
English, Finnish
Responsible organisation:
Department of Biological and Environmental Science
Curriculum periods:
2024-2025, 2025-2026, 2026-2027, 2027-2028

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Introduction to Bioinformatics

Description

The course introduces students to the use of bioinformatic databases (containing DNA, RNA, protein data) and supports them as they explore the database information. Students learn how to search for specific types of data, align DNA and protein sequences, and visualize protein structures with online tools. Students practice planning their own data search/analysis work-flows as well as interpreting and evaluating results of basic bioinformatic analyses in a report.



Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student can:

  • explain why bioinformatic tools are needed,
  • recognize differences among biological databases, data formats and their usages,
  • use databases to retrieve information about genes, proteins and genomes,
  • perform and evaluate DNA and amino acid sequence alignments,
  • visualize and interpret basic protein structures using online tools,
  • combine information obtained from DNA, RNA and amino acid sequences to answer questions using bioinformatic tools
  • communicate the steps needed to find and interpret bioinformatic results.

Additional information

The course can be completed in person (attendance in practical sessions required) OR online (mostly self-paced, with 2 scheduled group meetings).

In person teaching is recommended for those who are not comfortable with their computer skills.

Lectures and materials in English; Tasks can be completed in English or Finnish.

Description of prerequisites

BENP1003, or basics in molecular biology and genetics

Study materials

A course area in Moodle is available where you can find materials and course tasks. 

Completion methods

Method 1

Description:
Attendance is required. Lectures are held in English. Course tasks can be completed in English or Finnish
Evaluation criteria:
Course tasks, computer practicals, report and group work.
Time of teaching:
Period 4, Period 5
Select all marked parts

Method 2

Description:
A self-study option for the course is available each semester, please choose the group in which you will participate. Self-study is done in the Moodle course platform. Attendance in two scheduled meeting times is required to complete the group-work.
Evaluation criteria:
Independent course tasks and computer exercises, Group work and report.
Time of teaching:
Period 4, Period 5
Select all marked parts
Parts of the completion methods
x

Teaching (3 cr)

Type:
Participation in teaching
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
English, Finnish

Teaching

x

Independent study (3 cr)

Type:
Independent study
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
English, Finnish

Teaching