James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

BC3203 - Bioinformatics

Subject Description

This subject introduces computational methods for working with high throughput sequencing data that form the core of modern molecular biology. Lectures describe concepts and techniques required to analyse, visualise and interpret datasets involving many thousands of genes, genomic variants or microbial taxa. Practicals work through concrete examples of methods covered in lectures, and are designed to build proficiency in the use of general purpose tools such as the R language and the unix shell to efficiently work with large biological datasets. Topics covered include an introduction to R and the unix shell, principles of scientific graphics, differential gene expression, finding and interpreting genomic variants and metagenomics. This subject is suitable for students seeking to equip themselves with the necessary tools to answer questions in molecular biology using large sequencing or expression datasets. For students who do not have the required pre-requisites, please seek advice from the subject coordinator or Discipline Academic Advisor to enrol.

Learning Outcomes

• to critically evaluate results from widely used bioinformatic tools based on an understanding of their core concepts and assumptions
• to solve questions in molecular biology using appropriate statistical and bioinformatic techniques to analyse genomic sequencing data
• to apply the results from bioinformatics tools to make inferences on the evolutionary and cellular processes involved in disease or ecological events
• to write and debug short computer programs for the purposes of data reformatting, analysis and visualisation

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Problem task - (20%) - Individual
• Written > Research report - (40%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

Achieve an overall percentage of 50% or more; Complete both assignments and achieve an average assignment mark of at least 50%. Complete at least 6 coding assignments (delivered during tutorials) and achieve an average coding assignment mark of 50%. Pass the final exam

Availabilities