Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/bioinformatics-pku
Are you fascinated by the intricate world of biology and the power of computation? Then look no further than Peking University’s “Bioinformatics: Introduction and Methods” course on Coursera. This comprehensive MOOC is your gateway to understanding the concepts and computational methods that drive the exciting, interdisciplinary field of bioinformatics.
From its very beginnings, this course meticulously guides you through the history and fundamental concepts of bioinformatics. You’ll gain a solid foundation, preparing you for the more advanced topics ahead. A significant portion of the course is dedicated to **Sequence Alignment**, where you’ll delve into dynamic programming algorithms like Needleman-Wunsch for global alignment and Smith-Waterman for local alignment. The chance to learn about the Smith-Waterman algorithm directly from Dr. Michael Waterman is an unparalleled opportunity.
Next, the course tackles **Sequence Database Search**, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate essential databases and master tools like BLAST. You’ll learn to critically evaluate BLAST results and tailor parameters to your specific research needs. The exploration of **Markov Models**, including Hidden Markov Models, is crucial for understanding sequence patterns and making predictions in biological problems.
The advent of **Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)** is thoroughly covered. You’ll learn about NGS features, read mapping, variant calling, and analyze real NGS data. The course also dives into **Functional Prediction of Genetic Variants**, introducing you to tools like SIFT and PolyPhen to interpret the impact of genetic changes.
Beyond the core techniques, the course offers insightful case studies. You’ll explore the **Origination of New Genes** with Dr. Manyuan Long, a leading expert, and delve into the **Evolutionary Function Analysis of DNA Methyltransferase** with Dr. Gang Pei. These modules provide practical applications and a glimpse into cutting-edge research.
Finally, you’ll cover **Transcriptome Analysis (RNA-Seq)**, **Prediction and Analysis of Noncoding RNA**, and **Ontology and Identification of Molecular Pathways** using resources like KEGG and Gene Ontology. The course concludes with a module on **Bioinformatics Database and Software Resources**, ensuring you know where to find the tools and data for your future endeavors.
This course is exceptionally well-structured, with clear learning objectives for each module. The supplementary materials are valuable, and the opportunity to learn from world-renowned experts is a significant draw. Whether you’re a student looking to enhance your research skills or a professional seeking to enter the field of bioinformatics, this course offers a robust and engaging learning experience. I highly recommend “Bioinformatics: Introduction and Methods” for anyone looking to build a strong foundation in this vital scientific discipline.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/bioinformatics-pku