Computational Biologists - Cornell University

Computational Biologists from Cornell University is a Campus Bachelor Biology degree that prepares you for a Science career. Computation has become essential to biological research. Genomic databases, protein databanks, MRI images of the human brain, and remote sensing data on landscapes contain unprecedented amounts of detailed information that are transforming almost all of biology. Problems investigated by computational biologists include topics as diverse as the genetics of disease susceptibility; comparing entire genomes to reveal the evolutionary history of life; predicting the structure, motions, and interactions of proteins; designing new therapeutic drugs; modeling the complex signaling mechanisms within cells; predicting how ecosystems will respond to climate change; and designing recovery plans for endangered species. The computational biologist must have skills in mathematics, statistics and the physical sciences as well as in biology. A key goal in training is to develop the ability to relate biological processes to computational models. Cornell faculty work primarily in four subareas of computational biology: biomolecular structure, bioinformatics and data mining, ecology and evolutionary biology, and statistical and computational methods for modeling biological systems. Specific topics of study include DNA databases, protein structure and function, computational neuroscience, biomechanics, population genetics, and management of natural and agricultural systems. Beyond core skills in mathematics, physical sciences and biology, the computational biology Program of Study requires additional coursework in mathematics and computer programming, a "bridging" course aimed at connecting biology to computation, and an advanced course where the theoretical/computational component of one aspect of biology is studied. Students should enroll in the more rigorous courses in the physical and mathematical sciences, and may wish to take additional courses in these areas. Computational biology has applications as broad as biology itself. The problems of interest and the tools available to study them are constantly evolving, so students are encouraged to gain fundamental skills that will serve them throughout their careers. There is great, and increasing, demand for research scientists and technical personnel who can bring mathematical and computational skills to the study of biological problems. The program is also an excellent preparation for graduate study in any area of biology or computational biology. View more details on Cornell University . Ask your questions and apply online for this program or find other related Biology courses.