About Bioinformatics

Why would you want to major in Bioinformatics?

Bioinformatics is an emerging, rapidly expanding scientific discipline that addresses problems related to the collection, processing, analysis of vast amounts of data describing the structure and function of biological systems. Bioinformatics is a truly interdisciplinary science, combining:

• computer science
• molecular biology
• chemistry
• mathematics

Bioinformatics merges computer and information science with the study of genetic information and biological structures. Bioinformatics allows researchers to open new windows of insight into our genetic makeup, providing pathways to understanding disease processes and creating novel diagnostic and treatment strategies. There is an immense and growing need for experts in this field, in order to capitalize on the growing body of knowledge regarding the genome. A graduate of the UNO Bioinformatics program will gain a solid background in a wide variety of positions in the biomedical and biotechnology industries, for graduate study in bioinformatics or related areas and with the addition of a few courses, medical school.