IBS 608 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.

IBS 608 is comprised of a series of 1/2 credit minicourses, each meeting for 1 hour/week for 7 weeks, that will be taught during the Spring semester. Each minicourse will focus on a specific topic or area of research that is ongoing at UK or is particularly timely/exciting. Each student is required to participate in 4 of these minicourses for a total of 2 credit hours during the semester. Up to ten minicourses will be offered each semester. The particular topics (and participating faculty) may vary from year to year. Students will be expected to sign up for 6 courses in order of preference and will be assigned to 4 minicourses.