Recognizing the need for bioinformatics in our technically driven world, the Departments of Statistics and Biology are introducing a Bachelor of Sciences in Bioinformatics program at Texas A&M University.
Set to begin this semester, the program is focused on increasing mastery of data analytics and computation and developing core competencies in bioinformatic methods through an integrated curriculum focused on biology, statistics, computer science and the seamless integration of these diverse domains. Dr. Yuchao Jiang, associate professor of statistics and biology with expertise in statistical bioinformatics and computational biology, will oversee the new major.
“The field of bioinformatics is constantly growing and extremely interdisciplinary,” Jiang said. “We’ve seen multiple integrated programs across the nation achieve great success, and their graduates go on to do well in the market. This type of integrated program is needed to fill a significant gap. We spent a lot of efforts designing the curriculum so students who emerge from this path will have the skill sets in high demand in academia, healthcare, medicine and biotechnology that allow them to be successful in their careers and make a difference in their communities.”
Students will be required to successfully complete a minimum of 120 credit hours to earn their degree. Coursework includes introductory courses in statistics, biology and computer science and engineering, as well as advanced and interdisciplinary courses in genetics, genomics, bioinformatics and computational biology. Students will also complete the newly approved Bioinformatics Cornerstone and Bioinformatics Capstone courses to enhance their data analytics and computational skills and to broaden their knowledge of genomic technologies and bioinformatic methods.
‘’This will be a cross-disciplinary, cutting-edge degree designed to prepare students to tackle complex big data with biological significance,” said Dr. Bani Mallick, director of the Texas A&M Center for Statistical Bioinformatics in the Department of Statistics. “Graduates will not simply learn to execute a few codes — they will develop a solid foundation in both statistics and biology. By integrating data analytics, biological theory, and computational algorithms, this program will offer a uniquely powerful educational experience.”
The program, which targets students interested in pursuing a career in bioinformatics, computational biology, data science, healthcare and biotechnology, is bolstered by experienced faculty and a driven degree path, demonstrating the dedication Texas A&M shows its STEM majors.
Bioinformaticians and computational biologists are well positioned for myriad career opportunities in high demand. Within academia and government sectors, they make indispensable contributions, actively engaging in a wide array of biological and medical research programs, as well as large-scale genetic and genomic initiatives. In industry, bioinformaticians and computational biologists play integral roles in pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms and healthcare organizations. Job opportunities for graduates with a bioinformatics degree are projected to increase by 35% between 2021 and 2032, while the bioinformatics market share is projected to surge from $10.10 billion in 2022 to $39.8 billion by 2030.
“The program is tailored toward students who are interested in the theories behind statistics and the application of these theories to real life,” Jiang said. “In the same sense, it will appeal to biology students who are interested in the mechanisms behind it and are looking for quantitative exposure and training. It’s an interdisciplinary-minded opportunity for students who want exposure from the diverse fields.”
Alex Keene, head of the Department of Biology, says the new program will provide students with the opportunity to major in a rapidly growing field that touches every area of biomedical and biological sciences.
“Our department previously offered a minor in bioinformatics,” Keene said, “however, this program will allow students to gain deep expertise that prepares them for diverse careers in biotech, pre-health and academic research. The collaboration between biology and statistics will provide students with the best of both fields and a unique educational opportunity at Texas A&M.”