Education Matters Biomedical Informatics
by: Susanne Brunner
Posted: Jul 3, 2017 / 05:00 PM CDT / Updated: Jul 3, 2017 / 05:44 PM CDT
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – UAMS is rolling out with a brand new curriculum this fall.
It’s called biomedical informatics, focusing on computer science and genetics.
This type of degree offers many job opportunities.
For instance, in one small lab setting, they’re researching different types of DNA samples, like one for mumps, and they’re using new technology to find out what’s in the sample.
A sample is taken and placed in a small sequencing machine. Within 15 minutes, it identifies what types of bacteria and infection are in it.
“With all this information, we can design a vaccine for that particular outbreak, for example,” explains David Ussery, UAMS Professor.
The descriptive results appear on the screen, showing the type of strain and outbreak. The information can be used to find a treatment.
It’s part of the university’s new Department of Biomedical Informatics. In a nutshell, it’s about using computers for medical information.
“I expect them to publish, we also expect them to write a grant, learn how to write a grant because that’s very, very important, and we also expect them to produce results,” Ussery continues.
The program is divided into four parts: clinical, image, clinical research and bioinformatics. It’s the first graduate program of its kind in Arkansas.
“This is a new field, and there’s a real need for people to understand genetics and microbiology but also understand computers and know how to work together,” Ussery says.
There’s a demand for more people to come into this job field.
Professor Ussery says they’re looking for people who have some computer skills, but also know biology.
“If you’re interdisciplinary and can talk these different languages, you could do whatever you wanted,” he adds.
With a door wide open to opportunities, for education, employment and helping develop vaccinations for types of illnesses.
UAMS hopes to enroll 15 to 20 students for the program’s first year.
Your can earn a certificate, Masters or PhD.
You must have a Bachelor’s in computer science, biology, biotechnology or biomedical engineering.