BINF 151

This course offers a gently-paced introduction to concepts in computing such as algorithms, problem solving, and programming, with particular focus on their applications in the life sciences. Basic skills in problem solving, programming, as well as in accessing, storing, and manipulating biological data are developed. The course will consist of two components. First, basic concepts in computing will be explored using introductory programming techniques. Second, select bioinformatics programs and databases currently utilized in the life sciences will be introduced, including resources for sequence similarity search, sequence alignment, and inferring phylogeny. Hands-on exercises will provide students with the opportunity to apply basic computing skills to specific tasks in biology.