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Learn Bioinformatics

Biological researchers specializing in bioinformatics use algorithms to draw conclusions from large data sets. Learn bioinformatics to harness computational power for medical and biological research purposes.

What is bioinformatics?

Bioinformatics is the use of computers and technology to store, study, and analyze biological genetic data, such as DNA or amino acid sequences. Bioinformaticians create and use programmatic tools that:

  • Filter massive amounts of biological data.
  • Develop sequencing methods.
  • Analyze sequences for meaningful trends and insights.

When organized properly, biological data can help scientists, programmers, and researchers expand their knowledge of health, diseases, and medical care.

For example, bioinformatics analysis is used in genome sequencing, in which raw data is collected from biological samples, such as blood. DNA sequencing like this can help clinicians make rare diagnoses and track infectious organisms.

The Human Genome Project was one of the first large-scale bioinformatics efforts where an international group of researchers spent 13 years figuring out how to generate the first sequence of the human genome.

Why learn bioinformatics?

Learning bioinformatics offers many personal and professional advantages:

  • Increase your salary potential: O*NET Online reports that biological scientists earned a median salary of $93,390 as of May 2024, with top earners making more than $158,730.
  • Make a difference: Bioinformatics research has helped develop tests that can diagnose genetic diseases in newborns and identify breast cancer years before symptoms appear.
  • Research big questions: Learning bioinformatics lets you work at the forefront of medical research, such as how computational power can create personalized medicine for all patients.
  • Work in an interdisciplinary field: Bioinformatics researchers use their background in biology, computer science, and information technology to make life-saving discoveries.

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How to get started in bioinformatics

1. Build foundational knowledge in biology

Working in bioinformatics requires a solid foundation in biology. You can start learning biology with free introductory edX courses in:

  • Cell biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Food fermentation

Build your knowledge and skills with an edX certificate. Certificates are a great way to improve your résumé, and you may earn college credit that you can put toward a MicroBachelors®.

A bachelor's in biology may require core courses in:

  • Ecology
  • Genetics
  • Evolutionary biology
  • Foundations in biochemistry

2. Sharpen your math skills

Prospective college students interested in learning bioinformatics can develop essential math skills before enrollment. With edX, you can:

These courses and programs can help you excel on your college's math course placement exam, potentially saving you time and money on your education.

Even if you test out of introductory math courses, you may still need to take advanced courses in linear algebra and multivariable calculus. Use your school's academic success center resources if you need tutoring or other assistance.

3. Learn to code

Bioinformatics exists at the crossroads of computer science and biology. As a result, professionals must know at least one coding language, such as:

  • Python
  • R
  • C++
  • SQL

If you lack a computer science background, consider supplementing your biology degree with a second major in computer science or data science. Other options include a separate undergraduate or graduate certificate. edX programming certificates can be convenient and relatively affordable for learners of all experience levels.

Working professionals with a bachelor's can enroll in an online master's in computer science or data science program. The latter is an excellent choice if you want a career in interdisciplinary research.

4. Explore machine learning

Machine learning algorithms are the underlying technology that enable bioinformatics researchers to analyze genetic data quickly. As a result, knowing machine learning is essential for many bioinformatics careers. You can learn machine learning fundamentals with edX courses and programs, including:

  • Data science for machine learning
  • Math with machine learning and Python
  • Artificial intelligence and machine learning in healthcare

Once you know the basics, further your education with undergraduate or graduate coursework. Academic advisors can help you choose the right computer science electives.

5. Gain hands-on experience

Hands-on experience can give your résumé a boost and help you further your education in a real-world setting. As an undergraduate, research internal and external internship opportunities. Interning in a lab or other setting allows you to connect with like-minded peers and network with potential employers.

As you start your job search, compare entry-level bioinformatics jobs, like:

  • Bioinformatics scientist
  • Research scientist
  • Biostatistician
  • Microbiologist

These and related careers may require an advanced degree. Start researching relevant master's and doctoral programs as an undergraduate. You can also work with your school's career advisors to develop an academic success plan meeting your unique needs.

What do you learn in bioinformatics courses?

An online bioinformatics course can teach learners how to identify and handle biological and genetic data. This knowledge can have many potential applications, including disease research, genome analysis, and medicinal development.

A foundational course in bioinformatics and biological data may cover how to:

  • Understand how biological data is collected and processed.
  • Use biomedical big data resources such as TCGA, G-DOC, and UNIPROT.
  • Analyze genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data with online tools.
  • Find the value of big data in biomedical research and clinical practice.
  • Create bioinformatic algorithms.

More technical courses may be data science-focused, teaching learners about topics such as string processing and pattern matching. Computer science and programming skills can be useful for developing algorithms that conduct genomic sequencing or statistical analysis of biological data. A bioinformatics curriculum may also cover programming languages such as C++ or Python and software development.

Learners interested in more comprehensive programs in data science, biology, or bioinformatics can also pursue bachelor's degrees or, for more experienced individuals, master's degrees in a variety of subjects.

Jobs in bioinformatics

Bioinformatics influences a wide range of research and clinical areas. Understanding how to collect, study, and analyze biological data is a useful skill in a variety of careers and industries.

Some examples of careers that could use bioinformatics research and programming skills include:

  • Bioinformatician
  • Research scientist
  • Bioinformatics engineer
  • Computational biologist
  • Biostatistician
  • Geneticist
  • Epidemiologist

Your area of interest, prior experience, and goals will determine what career and educational path makes the most sense to pursue. For example, someone interested in biology and epidemiology will need to meet different qualifications for jobs in those fields than someone working primarily in engineering.


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    Frequently asked questions about bioinformatics

    Is bioinformatics a lot of coding?

    Yes. Writing machine learning algorithms requires a solid background in computer science, AI, and coding languages. Undergraduate bioinformatics programs train students in these skills with coursework that emphasizes data mining, data engineering, and applied data visualization.

    Is bioinformatics difficult to study?

    Learning bioinformatics can present many challenges due to its interdisciplinary nature and reliance on cutting-edge AI advances. Preparing for a career requires learning advanced math, one or more programming languages, and biology. Free edX courses and programs can provide you with foundational skills in these and other subjects before you begin your formal education.

    Is there a lot of math in bioinformatics?

    Yes, as typical undergraduate bachelor's in bioinformatics programs require courses in:

    • Calculus
    • Applied linear algebra
    • Statistics with applications
    • Discrete mathematics

    You can prepare for these courses by taking honors or Advanced Placement classes in high school.

    Is bioinformatics a stressful job?

    Bioinformatics researchers can experience stressful working conditions, such as long or irregular hours. Day-to-day responsibilities also involve stressful situations, including working on many projects simultaneously. Succeeding in this role requires a flexible mindset and superior problem-solving skills.

    Last updated August 7, 2025