Genomics and Bioinformatics

This subject is not offered in 2014.

90 hours

A bachelor degree with a major in a Life or Biomedical Science or Chemistry and at least 65% in the major or equivalent. As part of their degree studies, applicants must have completed
an appropriate sequence of genetics or biochemistry related subjects or equivalent to at least second year level.

Students must have completed ONE of the following subjects (or the equivalent):

None

None

None

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This subject describes current technologies used to sequence genomes - the starting point for comparative analyses of genes and proteins. The field of informatics has evolved to analyse and interpret large amounts of data generated by the new biotechnologies. Advanced topics will include transcriptome technologies, genome evolution and sequence similarity analysis techniques to identify protein orthologues and paralogues. The subject will cover bioinformatic analysis of protein structure and motifs at the secondary and tertiary levels, and modelling studies aimed at drug design. This subject will explore the latest developments in bioinformatics and detail how systems biology is helping to model complex biological processes.

The objectives of this subject are to provide students with knowledge of:

• current concepts concerning the molecular basis of genome structure and gene expression;
• theoretical background to genome analysis strategies and technologies and an appreciation of their biotechnological applications;
• the significance and applications of human and other genome sequencing programs
• bioinformatic techniques and applications in the analysis of protein structure and function

• 4 x 1500 word assignments at intervals during semester (80%)
• 1 x Oral presentation (10 min) at end of semester (20%)

None

“Understanding Bioinformatics” by Zvelebil and Baum (Garland Science)

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Completion of this subject is expected to enhance the generic skills of students in:

• the ability to interpret scientific literature and interpret data from electronic databases.
• the ability to use information technology to acquire relevant knowledge for their understanding of the current status of the field and its relevance to society.
• the capacity to integrate knowledge across disciplines.
• the ability to comprehend a question, evaluate the relevant information and communicate an answer
• the capacity for independent critical thought, rational inquiry and self-directed learning and research.