Program Overview:
The program in Bioinformatics and Proteomics/Genomics at the University of Toledo is designed to provide students and researchers with the advanced analytical tools and approaches needed for state-of-the-art biomedical research at the interface between computer science and molecular biology. The BPG program is associated with independent but cooperating programs at the UT main campus and the Bowling Green State University (BioInfOhio consortium).
The BPG Program contributes to the teaching mission of the University by educating graduate and other students, as well as interested faculty and staff, in the theory, methods and applications of bioinformatics, proteomics, and genomics. The Program contributes to the research mission of the University by carrying out research in BPG, and by operating core laboratory facilities that make expertise and specialized equipment available. The Program contributes to the service mission of the University by providing a regional and state resource of expertise and technology for bioinformatics, proteomics and genomics. BPG offers an MSBS degree based on coursework and a thesis. In addition, others (including MD or PhD students in other UT graduate programs) can qualify for certification in BPG based on taking a defined sequence of BPG courses.
Also part of the BPG Program are the BPG core laboratories (the Proteomics Core Lab and Genomics Core Lab). The PCL and GCL provide investigators on and off campus with access to modern tools in genomics and proteomics for their research.
Of Special Interest
The Program in Bioinformatics & Proteomics/Genomics maintains a 16-node Linux cluster for bioinformatic analyses. The Bioinformatics Computer Laboratory consists of 17 desktop computers to accommodate 16 students and an instructor, serving largely to provide UNIX windows for access to the cluster. Also available in the classroom is a dual-processor G5 Macintosh and a Dell Pentium IV Windows/Linux computer. These are intended for use by researchers, and are located near the door and separately lit so they can be used while classes are in session.
The fields of bioinformatics, proteomics and genomics are aggressively expanding. Knowledge in these areas is increasingly expected of all biomedical researchers, whether in academia, government, or the private sector. These analytical tools are being introduced into the practice of medicine and into general biology in areas such as ecology, bioremediation, agriculture, etc. In addition, this knowledge is valuable for careers in certain areas of business, law, computer science, and mathematics.
Curriculum Information
The curriculum consists of four 3-credit courses, but requires a strong grounding in molecular and cellular biology, which may be fulfilled by successful completion of the Molecular and Cellular Biology Core course (INDI684) or an equivalent. The curriculum provides the basics of Bioinformatics, Proteomics and Genomics.
The Plan of Study for the BPG Certificate Program is as follows:
- Molecular Cell Biology, 4 credits
- Statistical Methods I, 3 credits
- Fundamentals of BPG, 3 credits (fall offering)
- Statistical Methods in Bioinformatics, 3 credits (fall offering)
-Introduction to Bioinformatics Computations, 3 credits (offered in evenings Spring 07)
-Application of BPG, 3 credits (fall offering)
Click Here for More Curriculum Information, and New Summer Course Offerings.
Admissions Information
Applications are processed in the College of Graduate Studies on the Health Science Campus.
Applicants to the MSBS program should meet the following requirements for admissions:
• Earned bachelor’s degree and GRE or earned graduate degree from an accredited college or university.
• A GPA of 3.0 or higher. Applicants with a degree in progress will be considered.
• Minimum GRE 1600 or minimum requirement set for MSBS or PhD Programs
• Official transcripts required
• Three letters of recommendation
• Completed application form and accompanying application fee
Note: Previous research experience is recommended but not required. Current MD students applying to the MD/MSBS program must have no grade below “Pass” in the medical courses, and must have an endorsing letter from the Associate Dean for Student Affairs.
Applicants to the Certificate Program should meet the following requirements for admissions:
• For students not currently enrolled in a UT doctoral program, same requirements as for MSBS.
• For current MD or PhD students, no grade below “B” or “Pass” in first-year coursework, and endorsing letter from major adviser (PhD students) or Associate Dean for Student Affairs (MD students).