Applied Bioinformatics and Biostatistics

Short Description:

The professional training in Applied Bioinformatics and Biostatistics focuses on adquiring skills by joining biology and computer science. You will learn evaluation methods of bioinformatics such as sequence analysis, next generation sequencing (NGS) and the visualization of structures, as well as the targeted use of (molecular) biological databases and the application of statistical methods using R / R Studio. Furthermore you will be able to write small scripts in Python, which will expand your career profile. In this way, you will be prepared for a job at the intersection of bioinformatics, statistics and programming.

For employment seekers, funding is possible with an education voucher. The training is AZAV certified. 

Training Content:

1. Introduction to Programming and Python

Application strategies, professional profile, and perspectives

Introduction to Linux and Bash (Bourne-again shell) under Linux

Fundamentals of programming (programming methodology, pseudocode, data structures)

Version control and code documentation (Git/GitHub)

Introduction to the Python programming language

Object-oriented programming in Python

2. Bioinformatics and Biodatabases

NCBI and interaction databases

Biopython: Web services

Database management

Relational database schema, SQL integration

3. Applied Bioinformatics

Sequence analysis, sequencing strategies

Pairwise and multiple alignments, BLAST variants

Structural bioinformatics, software for structure visualization

Automated image recognition methods. Digital image processing. Example: Automatic cell and area calculation

4. Applied  Biostatistics

Fundamentals of statistics, descriptive and multivariate statistics

Statistical analysis with R/R-Studio

Variance, principal component, cluster, and discriminant analysis

Concepts of machine learning (Markov chain implementation)

Artificial neural networks/networks

Application of artificial intelligence (AI), especially programs like ChatGPT

5. Next Generation Sequencing

Introduction to NGS. Basics of NGS

Familiarization with NGS data formats (FASTQ, SAM/BAM)

Installation of NGS programs/tools

Processing of sequencing data (quality control, trimming, mapping)

Use of Conda for creating and managing software environments for NGS data analysis

Creating NGS workflows (Galaxy and Snakemake or R and Nextflow)

6. Internship

Joint organization of a project phase in a company/institute

Individual application coaching

Comparison of independently compiled company lists with the CQ company network for better coordination

Providing research tools (platforms, associations, clubs, technology parks, job advertisements)

Opportunity to apply the learned skills in a work process with real data

For participants not residing in Berlin, the internship can be completed in the vicinity of their place of residence or remotely

The gateway to a job

Support during the application process

Researched job advertisements (nationwide in Germany) will be provided

Researched job advertisements will be sent by email to former participants up to 6 months after completing the training

Requirements:

A requirement is your interest in the subject areas of biology and computer science. Good English skills, solid basic knowledge in biology and mathematics as well as enjoying working with IT applications are required.

The target group includes in particular academics in biology, chemistry, medicine, mathematics, physics and computer science.

We will be happy to advise you if you have any questions - just contact us.