5 answers
Nabeel
Student
Bengkulu, Indonesia
4
Questions
Asked
1849 views
Should I choose Bioinformatics and what schoool to choose?
I read some articles that it is plausible to take bioinformatics even when a student didn't take biology classes (like me) BUT has a strong computer science background. As someone who wants to contribute to medical research, should I do it?
I also see that Computational Biology / Bioinformatics curriculum is heavier on algorithm side.
And what school should I choose? I am from Indonesia and looking for scholarship to study abroad.
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4 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1334
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Nabeel!
Bioinformatics, huh? You're definitely thinking in the right direction! Honestly, bioinformatics is one of those hidden gem careers that not enough people talk about — and the coolest part is, you don't need to be a biology nerd from day one to get into it. If you're already solid in computer science, you're halfway there.
At its core, bioinformatics is just telling biology to "scoot over" and letting computers crack the code of life. DNA? It's basically one giant string of data. Proteins? Just 3D puzzles waiting to be solved. Your job would be to use algorithms to find patterns in that data — whether it's figuring out what genes are linked to diseases or helping design new medicines. The biology part? You can pick that up along the way. What really matters is how you think like a programmer but with a scientist's curiosity.
If you're dreaming of contributing to medical research, bioinformatics could literally help you change lives without ever stepping into a lab. It's like being the brain behind the scenes while the doctors do their thing up front.
For schools, if you're eyeing scholarships abroad, look at programs in Europe — countries like Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands are big on computational biology and offer tons of scholarships for international students. Try checking out DAAD in Germany or Erasmus Mundus programs.
While you're searching, don't wait for the perfect school to start learning. Hit up free courses on Coursera or edX, get comfy with Python and R, and maybe even mess around with some open datasets like DNA sequences. Build a little portfolio with small projects — like predicting genetic mutations or analyzing COVID data — and you'll already have one foot in the door before you even apply anywhere.
Bioinformatics is a marathon, not a sprint — but if you're the kind of person who likes solving puzzles and using tech to make the world a little better... this might just be your playground.
What do you think Nabeel, Are ya Ready to crack the code of life, because I know you are gonna do great man! All the best and good luck! 🤗
Learn Python like it's your best buddy. It's the go-to language for bioinformatics. Platforms like Coursera or freeCodeCamp have great beginner-friendly Python courses.
Once you're comfy with Python, check out BioPython — it's a special library built just for biological data. You can start playing around with DNA sequences like you're hacking the blueprint of life.
Try the "Introduction to Bioinformatics" course on Coursera (offered by UC San Diego) — it's beginner-friendly and breaks down how algorithms are used to analyze biological data.
Start small: Download some public genome data from NCBI or Kaggle and write little scripts to find patterns or mutations. It's like solving mini biology mysteries with code.
Join communities like r/bioinformatics on Reddit or BioStars where people share projects, advice, and resources.
Bioinformatics, huh? You're definitely thinking in the right direction! Honestly, bioinformatics is one of those hidden gem careers that not enough people talk about — and the coolest part is, you don't need to be a biology nerd from day one to get into it. If you're already solid in computer science, you're halfway there.
At its core, bioinformatics is just telling biology to "scoot over" and letting computers crack the code of life. DNA? It's basically one giant string of data. Proteins? Just 3D puzzles waiting to be solved. Your job would be to use algorithms to find patterns in that data — whether it's figuring out what genes are linked to diseases or helping design new medicines. The biology part? You can pick that up along the way. What really matters is how you think like a programmer but with a scientist's curiosity.
If you're dreaming of contributing to medical research, bioinformatics could literally help you change lives without ever stepping into a lab. It's like being the brain behind the scenes while the doctors do their thing up front.
For schools, if you're eyeing scholarships abroad, look at programs in Europe — countries like Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands are big on computational biology and offer tons of scholarships for international students. Try checking out DAAD in Germany or Erasmus Mundus programs.
While you're searching, don't wait for the perfect school to start learning. Hit up free courses on Coursera or edX, get comfy with Python and R, and maybe even mess around with some open datasets like DNA sequences. Build a little portfolio with small projects — like predicting genetic mutations or analyzing COVID data — and you'll already have one foot in the door before you even apply anywhere.
Bioinformatics is a marathon, not a sprint — but if you're the kind of person who likes solving puzzles and using tech to make the world a little better... this might just be your playground.
What do you think Nabeel, Are ya Ready to crack the code of life, because I know you are gonna do great man! All the best and good luck! 🤗
Dr recommends the following next steps:
I will use this advice as I prepare for my career.
Nabeel
I appreciate your support, Dr
Hanna
Loved reading it and really helpful so I took down some steps and gonna put them to good use. Thank you.
Girls
You're very welcome, Nabeel! Wishing you all the best as you prepare for your career — you've got this!
And, Hanna, I'm so happy to hear that! Keep pushing forward, the best is yet to come! 🌟
Dr H
Awww Girls, so happy to hear that! 💕
You're already on the right track — just keep going! If you ever need anythign (big or small), I'm right here. You got this! 😉
Dr H
Demitri Morgan
Software Engineer
8
Answers
Lakeside, MT
Updated
Demitri’s Answer
Speaking from very limited experience, if you're going to the University of California: a successful former coworker of mine went to UC Santa Cruz, as I did, and studied bioinformatics. (I studied a different major.) That school was one of the first UC's to have a bioinformatics major and has been an important contributor to the field.
I recommend learning at least some biology before you get started, because bioinformatics is the application of computing to biology, and so the details of that problem domain are important. It will also give you a chance to either get inspired to learn more or decide to go into a career that is a different application of your background and interest in computer science.
I recommend learning at least some biology before you get started, because bioinformatics is the application of computing to biology, and so the details of that problem domain are important. It will also give you a chance to either get inspired to learn more or decide to go into a career that is a different application of your background and interest in computer science.
Your advice was so helpful!
Nabeel
Thank you so much!
Hanna
Demitri, you're absolutely spot on! Bioinformatics really is that beautiful blend of biology and computer science — like nature and technology having a secret handshake. Getting familiar with the biology side is what makes the whole journey click.
Even if someone hasn't touched biology before, starting with the basics like DNA structure, genetics, or how proteins work can light up that curiosity spark. Once you see how code can unlock secrets hidden in life itself, it's hard not to fall in love with the field.
UC Santa Cruz definitely has some legendary contributions in genomics, especially with the Human Genome Project — great tip!
Dr H
Rosa Joy Makandi
Computer Technician
17
Answers
Meru, Meru County, Kenya
Updated
Rosa’s Answer
Your career path is possible. As for scholarship. Check out bodies that give scholarship such as rotary foundation, or specific universities. Most scholarships are for masters level though you might find one for any level. Check even local universities from their websites or international scholarships.
Bright Komor
Nurse
261
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
Bioinformatics is an interdisciplinary field with immense potential in medical research. It is a field that combines computer science and biology, with a strong foundation in algorithms, data analysis, and software development. Bioinformatics is crucial for analyzing genomic data, developing personalized medicine, drug discovery, and understanding disease outbreaks. To choose a school and scholarship, consider factors such as program curriculum, research opportunities, faculty expertise, and international student support. Universities with strong bioinformatics programs in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia can provide excellent opportunities. To apply for scholarships, consider university-specific scholarships, government scholarships, external scholarships, and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). To succeed in bioinformatics, focus on languages like Python and R, learn about databases and data analysis, explore online resources, network with professionals, and start early.
Thank you!
Girls