PHA 617 emphasizes genomics and bioinformatics approaches that are increasingly important in broad areas of biomedical science. These tools allow us to work with large data sets, analyze the transcriptomes of single cells and whole tissues, visualize data in sophisticated ways, do rigorous experimental design, and perform proper statistical procedures for these types of data. This is a hands-on, experiential course. It includes some lecture material but the emphasis is on computer exercises allowing students to learn tools by using them. In terms of teaching mechanism, this is an in-person course taught in a computer lab. However, be prepared to switch to on-line learning in the event of unusual circumstances, such as university-mandated virtual teaching or personal quarantine.

RNA-seq, ChIP-seq and microarray techniques are powerful tools for global analyses of transcriptomes and gene expression. They are widely used in biological and medical research. Lectures on fundamental concepts, experimental design, and the impact of understanding gene expression patterns are combined with computer labs where students analyze RNA-seq, ChIP-seq and microarray data. Prereq: IBS 603 or an equivalent course in Cell Biology or Molecular Biology. (Same as PHA 617.)