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Pavel Pevzner
and
Phillip Compeau
Are you interested in learning how to program (in Python) within a scientific setting?
Read more
Are you interested in learning how to program (in Python) within a scientific setting?
Read more
Are you interested in learning how to program (in Python) within a scientific setting?
This course will cover algorithms for solving various biological problems along with a handful of programming challenges helping you implement these algorithms in Python. It offers a gently-paced introduction to our Bioinformatics Specialization (https://www.coursera.org/specializations/bioinformatics), preparing learners to take the first course in the Specialization, "Finding Hidden Messages in DNA" (https://www.coursera.org/learn/dna-analysis).
Each of the four weeks in the course will consist of two required components. First, an interactive textbook provides Python programming challenges that arise from real biological problems. If you haven't programmed in Python before, not to worry! We provide "Just-in-Time" exercises from the Codecademy Python track (https://www.codecademy.com/learn/python). And each page in our interactive textbook has its own discussion forum, where you can interact with other learners. Second, each week will culminate in a summary quiz.
Lecture videos are also provided that accompany the material, but these videos are optional.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/okfk98/biology
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What's inside
Syllabus
Week 1
Where in the Genome Does Replication Begin? (Part 1)
Week 2
Where in the Genome Does Replication Begin? (Part 2)
Read more
Syllabus
Week 1
Where in the Genome Does Replication Begin? (Part 1)
Week 2
Where in the Genome Does Replication Begin? (Part 2)
Read more
Week 3
Which DNA Patterns Play the Role of Molecular Clocks? (Part 1)
Week 4
Which DNA Patterns Play the Role of Molecular Clocks? (Part 2)
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Offers hands-on Python coding challenges to help learners quickly develop their ability to solve problems that arise in biological settings
Introduces Python programming fundamentals through 'Just-in-Time' exercises, making it accessible even to those without prior Python experience
Provides a solid foundation for subsequent courses in the Bioinformatics Specialization, ensuring learners enhance their problem-solving capabilities in this field
Integrates interactive textbook content and Python programming challenges, fostering a comprehensive learning experience
Facilitates a collaborative learning environment through discussion forums, enabling learners to share insights and receive peer support
Taught by renowned instructors in bioinformatics, Pavel Pevzner and Phillip Compeau, known for their expertise in algorithmic approaches to biological problems
Save this course
Save Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Discovery with data: bioinformatics for life scientists
learners say this course is largely positive for those who are familiar with Python and basic biology concepts. The course is well-received for its engaging assignments that help learners practice Python and apply it to real-world bioinformatics problems. However, learners with no prior programming experience may find the difficulty to be largely negative and may find the pacing too fast.
Learners with a background in programming will likely find this course to be a good fit for their skill level. The course provides a good introduction to bioinformatics concepts and Python programming.
"Nice beginner's course about bioinformatics."
"This course has a few flaws, but overall, it is interactive with automated problem checking, and has given be a good beginner level insight into Bioinformatics."
"I am a biologist & this is my first time learning python .. I 've loved this course even though it becomes kinda difficult after week 2 but I've learned a lot from it"
This course is well received by learners who have a background in both Python and biology. The engaging assignments and hands-on approach to learning bioinformatics concepts are particularly praised.
"The course is so perfect for anyone with interest in bioinformatics."
"Really enjoyed the course. You will have to commit to learning python also."
"Excited and very informative! I'm a high school student who loves biology and Computer science, and learning these two at the same time was such a great experience."
The pacing of the course is fast, which can be challenging for learners who are new to programming or bioinformatics. The material is complex and there is a lot of information to cover in a short amount of time.
"This course is difficult for beginners inexperienced in coding but so rewarding and extremely interesting!"
"The course is very nice but very difficult at the same time. It is not a course for true beginners!!"
"I am on the verge of giving up throughout the course. But once you get ahold of the concepts, it is very interesting."
Learners with no prior programming experience may find this course to be too challenging. The pace of the course is fast and the material is complex, which can be overwhelming for those who are new to programming.
"This course is definitely not for beginners."
"This course is really not for beginners, to be honest."
"The description of the course is misleading, you do have to know Python in order to fully focus on the biological problem."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners with these
activities:
Review 'Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics' by Jonatha M. Keith
Show steps
Review 'Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics' for a theoretical background on concepts that will be covered in the course.
Show steps
-
Read the first two chapters and complete any associated questions.
-
Complete the practice exercises at the end of each chapter.
-
Join the discussion forum for the book and participate in discussions.
Solve Python Programming Challenges on Codecademy
Show steps
Practice solving Python programming challenges to improve your coding skills and prepare for the course assignments.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
-
Complete the Python track on Codecademy.
-
Solve at least 10 challenges in each section of the track.
-
Join the discussion forum for the track and ask questions or help others.
Follow Tutorials on Bioinformatics Tools and Techniques
Show steps
Follow tutorials to learn about bioinformatics tools and techniques that will be used in the course.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
-
Find tutorials on topics such as sequence alignment, gene prediction, and phylogenetic analysis.
-
Follow the tutorials and complete any associated exercises.
-
Join the discussion forums for the tutorials and ask questions or share insights.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Write a Blog Post Summarizing a Course Lecture
Show steps
Write a blog post summarizing a course lecture to reinforce your understanding of the material and share it with others.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
-
Choose a lecture topic that you found particularly interesting or challenging.
-
Write a blog post that summarizes the key points of the lecture, provides examples, and discusses your own insights.
-
Share your blog post with your classmates and instructor for feedback.
Attend Study Sessions with Classmates
Show steps
Attend study sessions with classmates to review course material, work on assignments, and ask questions.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
-
Organize a study session with classmates.
-
Review the course material together, focusing on difficult concepts.
-
Work on assignments together and help each other understand the solutions.
Mentor a Junior Student
Show steps
Mentor a junior student who is taking a lower-level bioinformatics course to reinforce your understanding and help others succeed.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
-
Offer to mentor a junior student through your university's mentoring program.
-
Meet with the student regularly to review course material, provide guidance, and answer questions.
-
Share your own experiences and insights to help the student succeed.
Attend Bioinformatics Conferences and Meetups
Show steps
Attend bioinformatics conferences and meetups to connect with professionals in the field, learn about the latest research, and expand your knowledge.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
-
Find bioinformatics conferences and meetups in your area.
-
Attend the events and introduce yourself to speakers and attendees.
-
Ask questions, share your insights, and learn from others.
Contribute to an Open-Source Bioinformatics Project
Show steps
Contribute to an open-source bioinformatics project to gain practical experience, build your portfolio, and give back to the community.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
-
Find an open-source bioinformatics project that you are interested in.
-
Read the project documentation and familiarize yourself with the codebase.
-
Identify a bug or feature that you can contribute to.
Review 'Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics' by Jonatha M. Keith
Show steps
Review 'Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics' for a theoretical background on concepts that will be covered in the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the first two chapters and complete any associated questions.
- Complete the practice exercises at the end of each chapter.
- Join the discussion forum for the book and participate in discussions.
Solve Python Programming Challenges on Codecademy
Show steps
Practice solving Python programming challenges to improve your coding skills and prepare for the course assignments.
Browse courses on
Python
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Complete the Python track on Codecademy.
- Solve at least 10 challenges in each section of the track.
- Join the discussion forum for the track and ask questions or help others.
Follow Tutorials on Bioinformatics Tools and Techniques
Show steps
Follow tutorials to learn about bioinformatics tools and techniques that will be used in the course.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find tutorials on topics such as sequence alignment, gene prediction, and phylogenetic analysis.
- Follow the tutorials and complete any associated exercises.
- Join the discussion forums for the tutorials and ask questions or share insights.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Write a Blog Post Summarizing a Course Lecture
Show steps
Write a blog post summarizing a course lecture to reinforce your understanding of the material and share it with others.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a lecture topic that you found particularly interesting or challenging.
- Write a blog post that summarizes the key points of the lecture, provides examples, and discusses your own insights.
- Share your blog post with your classmates and instructor for feedback.
Attend Study Sessions with Classmates
Show steps
Attend study sessions with classmates to review course material, work on assignments, and ask questions.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Organize a study session with classmates.
- Review the course material together, focusing on difficult concepts.
- Work on assignments together and help each other understand the solutions.
Mentor a Junior Student
Show steps
Mentor a junior student who is taking a lower-level bioinformatics course to reinforce your understanding and help others succeed.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Offer to mentor a junior student through your university's mentoring program.
- Meet with the student regularly to review course material, provide guidance, and answer questions.
- Share your own experiences and insights to help the student succeed.
Attend Bioinformatics Conferences and Meetups
Show steps
Attend bioinformatics conferences and meetups to connect with professionals in the field, learn about the latest research, and expand your knowledge.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find bioinformatics conferences and meetups in your area.
- Attend the events and introduce yourself to speakers and attendees.
- Ask questions, share your insights, and learn from others.
Contribute to an Open-Source Bioinformatics Project
Show steps
Contribute to an open-source bioinformatics project to gain practical experience, build your portfolio, and give back to the community.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find an open-source bioinformatics project that you are interested in.
- Read the project documentation and familiarize yourself with the codebase.
- Identify a bug or feature that you can contribute to.
Career center
Learners who complete Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Bioinformatician
Bioinformatician
Bioinformaticians leverage computer programming and computational tools in the field of biology. They're tasked with managing, analyzing, and interpreting vast amounts of biological data, and developing algorithms that can identify patterns and trends within this data. This course in Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners can be the first step toward a career as a Bioinformatician. Learners will be introduced to programming in Python and solving various biological problems which will build a strong foundation in programming for bioinformatics.
Computational Biologist
Computational Biologist
Computational Biologists use their expertise in computer science and biology to study biological systems. One key area of focus for Computational Biologists is developing computational models and simulations of biological systems. This helps build a deeper understanding of complex biological processes and predict how they might behave under different conditions. Enrolling in Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners can provide learners with a strong foundation in the programming skills and knowledge needed to be successful in Computational Biology.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists are responsible for extracting meaningful insights from large and complex datasets. They use their programming skills to clean, analyze, and visualize data, and develop models that can make predictions or identify trends. The Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners course can be a valuable stepping stone for individuals interested in becoming Data Scientists. It will provide them with a solid foundation in programming and data analysis skills, which are essential for success in the field.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. They are responsible for ensuring that software is efficient, reliable, and secure. Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners can be a valuable course for Software Engineers who want to specialize in bioinformatics. The course will provide them with a strong foundation in programming and an understanding of biological principles, which are essential for developing innovative software solutions for the life sciences industry.
Database Administrator
Database Administrator
Database Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining databases. They ensure that data is stored securely and efficiently, and that it is accessible to authorized users. Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners provides a solid foundation for individuals interested in becoming Database Administrators who specialize in bioinformatics. The course will introduce them to programming and data management concepts, and provide them with an understanding of biological principles.
Systems Analyst
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts study existing business processes and develop plans for improving them. They use their programming skills to design and implement new systems that are more efficient and effective. Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners can be a valuable course for Systems Analysts who want to specialize in bioinformatics. The course will provide them with a strong foundation in programming and an understanding of biological principles, which are essential for developing innovative software solutions for the life sciences industry.
Web Developer
Web Developer
Web Developers design and develop websites. They are responsible for ensuring that websites are visually appealing, easy to use, and accessible to all users. Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners can provide Web Developers with a strong foundation in programming and an understanding of biological principles. This knowledge can be valuable for developing websites for the life sciences industry.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create documentation for software, hardware, and other technical products. They are responsible for ensuring that documentation is clear, concise, and accurate. Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners provides a solid foundation for individuals interested in becoming Technical Writers who specialize in bioinformatics. The course will introduce them to programming and data management concepts, and provide them with an understanding of biological principles.
Science Writer
Science Writer
Science Writers communicate complex scientific information to a general audience. They use their writing skills to explain scientific concepts and discoveries in a clear and engaging way. Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners provides a solid foundation for individuals interested in becoming Science Writers who specialize in bioinformatics. The course will introduce them to programming and data management concepts, and provide them with an understanding of biological principles.
Statistician
Statistician
Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data. They use their skills to identify trends and patterns, and to make predictions about future events. Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners can provide Statisticians with a strong foundation in programming and an understanding of biological principles. This knowledge can be valuable for developing statistical models for the life sciences industry.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists study the distribution and determinants of disease in populations. They use their skills to identify risk factors for disease, and to develop strategies for prevention and control. Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners can provide Epidemiologists with a strong foundation in programming and an understanding of biological principles. This knowledge can be valuable for developing computational models to study the spread of disease.
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineers design and develop medical devices and systems. They use their engineering skills to solve problems in healthcare, and to improve patient outcomes. Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners can provide Biomedical Engineers with a strong foundation in programming and an understanding of biological principles. This knowledge can be valuable for developing new medical devices and technologies.
Healthcare Informatics Specialist
Healthcare Informatics Specialist
Healthcare Informatics Specialists use their programming skills to develop and manage healthcare information systems. They are responsible for ensuring that these systems are efficient, reliable, and secure. Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners provides a solid foundation for individuals interested in becoming Healthcare Informatics Specialists who specialize in bioinformatics. The course will introduce them to programming and data management concepts, and provide them with an understanding of biological principles.
Medical Laboratory Scientist
Medical Laboratory Scientist
Medical Laboratory Scientists perform tests on blood, urine, and other body fluids to diagnose and treat diseases. They use their skills to analyze data and identify abnormalities. Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners can provide Medical Laboratory Scientists with a strong foundation in programming and an understanding of biological principles. This knowledge can be valuable for developing new diagnostic tests and treatments.
Research Scientist
Research Scientist
Research Scientists conduct research to advance scientific knowledge. They use their skills to design and conduct experiments, and to analyze data. Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners can provide Research Scientists with a strong foundation in programming and an understanding of biological principles. This knowledge can be valuable for developing new research methods and technologies.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/okfk98/biology
Reading list
We've selected 26 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners.
Provides a comprehensive overview of algorithms for molecular biology, including topics such as sequence alignment, phylogenetic analysis, and gene finding.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of bioinformatics, including topics such as sequence analysis, gene expression analysis, and genome-wide association studies. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the field of bioinformatics.
Provides a theoretical and practical introduction to bioinformatics. It covers topics such as sequence analysis, database searching, and molecular evolution. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field.
This comprehensive textbook offers a deeper dive into algorithms used in bioinformatics, providing a solid foundation for understanding the course concepts and preparing for advanced studies and research in the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of molecular biology, including topics such as DNA structure and function, gene expression, and cell signaling. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the field of molecular biology.
Provides a practical introduction to Python programming for bioinformatics applications. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn how to use Python for biological data analysis.
This comprehensive textbook offers a broad overview of bioinformatics and functional genomics, providing a valuable reference for understanding the course topics and preparing for advanced studies.
This introductory text provides a solid foundation in computational biology concepts and techniques, complementing the course's focus on Python programming.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to bioinformatics programming using Python. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field.
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to sequence and genome analysis. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field.
This advanced textbook covers algorithms used in bioinformatics, providing a deeper understanding of the course topics and preparing for advanced studies in sequence analysis.
This comprehensive textbook offers a solid overview of bioinformatics, providing a valuable reference for understanding the course topics and preparing for advanced studies.
This comprehensive textbook offers a practical guide to the analysis of genes and proteins, providing a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners in bioinformatics.
Provides a gentle introduction to Python programming, including topics such as variables, data types, and control flow. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn how to use Python for bioinformatics applications.
Save
Provides a fun and engaging introduction to Python programming, including topics such as variables, data types, and control flow. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn how to use Python for bioinformatics applications.
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to bioinformatics. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field.
This classic text provides a comprehensive overview of probabilistic models used in bioinformatics, offering valuable background knowledge for the course.
This practical guide focuses on data skills and reproducibility in bioinformatics, providing valuable insights for researchers and students who handle large biological datasets.
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to Python programming, including topics such as variables, data types, and control flow. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn how to use Python for bioinformatics applications.
Provides a quick and easy introduction to Python programming, including topics such as variables, data types, and control flow. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn how to use Python for bioinformatics applications.
Provides a fast-paced introduction to Python programming, including topics such as variables, data types, and control flow. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn how to use Python for bioinformatics applications.
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to Python programming, including topics such as variables, data types, and control flow. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn how to use Python for bioinformatics applications.
This textbook offers a comprehensive introduction to bioinformatics programming in Python, providing a solid foundation for the course's programming exercises.
This practical guide specifically designed for biologists provides a deeper understanding of Python programming in a biological context, complementing the course's Python focus.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to bioinformatics. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field.
This accessible introduction to bioinformatics provides a basic overview of the field, suitable as background reading for learners who are new to the concepts.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/okfk98/biology
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Level
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University of California San Diego
Instructors
Pavel Pevzner
Phillip Compeau
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Good to know
Offers hands-on Python coding challenges to help learners quickly develop their ability to solve problems that arise in biological settings
Introduces Python programming fundamentals through 'Just-in-Time' exercises, making it accessible even to those without prior Python experience
Provides a solid foundation for subsequent courses in the Bioinformatics Specialization, ensuring learners enhance their problem-solving capabilities in this field
Integrates interactive textbook content and Python programming challenges, fostering a comprehensive learning experience
Facilitates a collaborative learning environment through discussion forums, enabling learners to share insights and receive peer support
Taught by renowned instructors in bioinformatics, Pavel Pevzner and Phillip Compeau, known for their expertise in algorithmic approaches to biological problems
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