Bioinformatics Ph.D. Minor

The 12-credit Bioinformatics Ph.D. minor equips students with the tools to solve real-world biological problems using computational methods. Through coursework in areas like next generation sequencing, systems biology, and machine learning, students gain valuable experience applying bioinformatics techniques to research across disciplines.

What you'll learn

The Bioinformatics Ph.D. minor equips students to apply computational tools to complex biological questions. Through coursework in bioinformatics, machine learning, biological databases, and high-throughput data analysis, students gain the skills to manage, analyze, and interpret large-scale biological data for advanced research across disciplines.

The Ph.D. Minor in Bioinformatics is a 12-credit hour program with four 3-credit-hour courses.

Required course (3 cr.)

• INFO-B 519 Introduction to Bioinformatics (3 cr.)

Specialization courses (9 cr.)

Students will select three of the following courses.

• INFO-B 529 Machine Learning in Bioinformatics (3 cr.)
• INFO-B 556 Biological Database Management (3 cr.)
• INFO-B 573 Programming for Chem/Life Science (3 cr.)
• INFO-B 528 Computational Methods for Analyzing High-Throughput Biological Data  (3 cr.)
• INFO-I 590 Next Generation Sequencing  (3 cr.)
• INFO-B 646 Computational System Biology (3 cr.)
• GRDM-G 848 Bioinformatics, Genomics, Proteomics and Systems Biology (2 cr.) + INFO B-552 Independent Study in Bioinformatics (1 cr.)

Grading policy

A minimum of B (3.0) is required in each course that is to count toward the minor. If a minimum of B (3.0) is not earned in a course, that course must be retaken. A course may only be retaken once. Students who fail to achieve the minimum grade of B (3.0) the second time they take a course will not be able to earn the Ph.D. minor.

Qualifying examination

The Ph.D. minor in Bioinformatics does not require a qualifying examination.

To be admitted to the Ph.D. Minor in Bioinformatics, students must be currently enrolled as a doctoral student in good academic standing in any Indiana University doctoral program. Students enrolled in other departments at our school also are welcome to apply.

How to apply

If you would like to apply to the Ph.D. minor, please submit an application package (PDF) via email to luddygrd@iu.edu containing:

• A resume that specifies the IU Ph.D. program in which the student is currently enrolled
• An IU Indianapolis student ID
• A one-page personal statement that includes identification of a minor advisor within the Bioinformatics graduate faculty.
• A brief message from the primary advisor who approves the student’s request

Accepted students will be notified promptly.