Hobart
Introduction
Bioinformatics is a core skill that is desperately needed by practitioners in the life sciences, from health to pathology and epidemiology to fundamental biological research. It is a discipline that brings together tools from mathematics, statistics, and computer science, to answer challenging questions that arise in the modern life sciences. The unit is aimed at those pursuing research in the life sciences and/or working with large biological data sets, and is intended to provide them with sufficient knowledge to effectively use existing bioinformatics tools, to understand how the bioinformatics tools work and what can or cannot be done with them, and to develop and critically assess bioinformatics workflows and methodologies. These tools and skills will enhance students' research capacity in life sciences.
Summary
| Unit name | Bioinformatics |
| Unit code | KMA712 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences |
| Discipline | Mathematics |
| Coordinator | Professor Michael Charleston |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Postgraduate |
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 21/2/2027 | 15/3/2027 | 18/4/2027 | 12/6/2027 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- effectively use a range of current bioinformatics tools and workflows to solve problems in life sciences (software)
- explain and apply the fundamental computational methods underlying the solution of bioinformatics problems (methods)
- classify the major classes of bioinformatics problems and choose appropriate tools to solve them (major problems)
- evaluate and communicate bioinformatics methodologies clearly (communication)
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Assessment | Computer Practicals (15%)|Quiz (20%)|Assignment 1 (25%)|Assignment 2 (40%) |
|---|---|
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
|---|
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.