Modern biology is characterised by the generation of large amounts of data. Consider, for instance, genomic sequencing of patients as well as plants, bacteria and viruses. Moreover, the technologies used to generate these data are constantly changing. During this programme you will learn how to formulate biologically relevant questions, how to design the correct solution and implement it by managing and analysing biological and sequencing data, and how to interpret the obtained results. Bioinformatics is essential to modern molecular biology and biotechnology.

The programme targets students with a background in informatics or statistics who want to apply their knowledge to complex biological questions, as well as students in biochemistry or molecular biology who want to master data analysis, computer programming and machine learning. Top researchers in bioinformatics train the students by means of theoretical lectures as well as hands-on forms of computer training.

Structure:

This interdisciplinary two-year programme focuses on acquiring

• basic background knowledge in diverse disciplines belonging to the field of bioinformatics, including statistics, molecular biology and computer science

• expert knowledge in the field of bioinformatics

• programming skills

• engineering skills

The 120-credit programme consists of a reorientation package (one semester), a common package (two semesters) and a thesis.

The Master of Bioinformatics is embedded in a strong bioinformatics research community in KU Leuven, who monthly meet at the Bioinformatics Interest Group. Bioinformatics research groups are spread over the Arenberg and Gasthuisberg campus and are located in the research departments of Microbial and Molecular Systems (M2S), Electrical Engineering (ESAT), Human Genetics, Microbiology and Immunology (REGA), Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Chemistry and Biology. Several of these bioinformatics research groups are also associated with the Flemish Institute for Biotechnology (VIB).

Is this the right programme for me? 

Are you a biochemist or molecular biologist with a keen interest in mathematics and programming? Are you a mathematician or statistician and want to apply your knowledge to complex biological questions? Do you want to develop new methods that can be used by doctors, biologists and biotechnology engineers? Then this is the right programme for you! 

This programme provides you with fundamental knowledge on the theoretical basis of bioinformatics technologies. Therefore, an aptitude for mathematics is required. In your previous higher education, a good grade should have been obtained for a course in at least one of the areas Statistics, Calculus or Linear Algebra.

This interdisciplinary programme is open to students with different backgrounds and during the project work you will be part of interdisciplinary teams. The international student population prepares you to work in an international environment in your future career.

Strengths:

1. The programme is truly multidisciplinary. On the one hand, students obtain detailed theoretical knowledge of quantitative methods and on the other hand become familiar with the molecular techniques that are used in modern biology.

2. The input from teaching staff from different faculties provides a broad view on the application areas of bioinformatics, from basic science to plant breeding and medical applications.

3. We offer high academic level and have high expectations of our students. Students appreciate that they learn a lot during the two-year programme

Career opportunities:

Bioinformaticians find careers in the life sciences domain in the broadest sense: industry, the academic world, health care, etc. The expanding need for bioinformatics in biological and medical research ensures a large variety of job opportunities in fundamental and applied research. 60% of our graduates start a PhD after graduation.