Introduction to Computing in Biology - 2026

Data collection & analysis is an important component of different fields of biology. Analyses of such datasets require at least preliminary knowledge of computing. This course aims to introduce basic computing tools that will allow students irrespective of background to analyze biological data. The course will include lectures, demonstrations and hands-on sessions in computer lab. Broadly, the following modules will be covered: 

• Introduction to UNIX command line
• Bioinformatics software in Unix environment
• Introduction to R programming

The course is designed to be an introductory course, but this can be used as a steppingstone for interested candidates to take up more advanced learnings on computing in biology.

• Why do we need to have computing skills in Biology?
• Introduction to Unix
• UNIX command line tools: File writing and manipulation
• UNIX command line tools: AWK
• Bioinformatics Software in Unix: Background
• Bioinformatics Software in Unix: BCFtools
• Introduction to R
• Data structures and Function
• Control Structures
• Data Import and wrangling
• Data visualization
• Predictive modelling in R

The course aims to overcome initial barriers to learn practical aspects of computing in biology. At the end of the course, students are expected to have

• Basic efficiency in Unix command line tools for file reading, writing & manipulation
• Basic knowledge of how to use functions and parameters of a bioinformatics software in Unix environment
• Ability to use R programming for data exploration, visualization & statistical testing.