Bioinformatician

Bioinformaticians develop software to use e.g. To read the information gained from the results of the genome decryption of plants, animals and humans meaningful and then to be able to make predictions about possible functions of biological phenomena. They simulate biological and chemical processes, design databases and develop programs for the visualization of microscopic structures or neural networks. Their interdisciplinary knowledge - between molecular biology and biotechnology, computer science and computational linguistics - is in demand everywhere, where biological processes and structures are examined by means of information technology and the possible applications derived from the results. After completing a Master's degree, they also have access to activities in science and research.

Bioinformatics find employment

• in companies of the pharmaceutical or chemical industry
• at software and database providers for scientific applications
• at computer service providers
• in research and development

The salary level for Bioinformatician in Germany is: from 4697 up to 5575 EUR per month

Why is?

Bioinformatics process data from biological processes and structures using information technology. They are interdisciplinary at the interface between life sciences (biology, chemistry, medicine) and computer science.

From the decoding of genetic material to biotechnology In addition to the analysis of biological data such as information on a gene, an organism or even an entire ecosystem, bioinformatics also includes the processing of biological information and the making of predictions. This is done with database applications, data integration, analysis programs, image processing and visualization, modeling and simulation of biological and chemical processes. This also includes the use of so-called neural networks, which are information processing systems consisting of many interconnected units.

Bioinformatics is used, for example, in the decoding of the genome. The individual sequences of the genomes initially exist only as small subsections. To find overlaps of these sequences and to compile the complete blueprint, bioinformaticians develop appropriate programs. And to decipher which genome building blocks are responsible for which characteristics, bioinformaticians develop programs with which they compare the genetic data of related organisms in databases worldwide. They conclude that genes may work, recognize disease-causing sequences, and look for drugs against these diseases.

In biotechnology, information technology techniques are used to control synthesis or fermentation processes. Bioinformaticians are also developing systems of robotics to automate chemical and biological investigations and screening procedures. They visualize chemical and biological structures, such as the formation of proteins that are not visible under the microscope. On the basis of the sequence of a protein can be a three-dimensional structure, the reaction behavior of the molecule and thus the probable mode of action, for example. to simulate a drug without laboratory tests. In the field of bionics, bioinformaticians use biological systems, such as the physical structure of animals or the cell structure of plants, as a model for the development of technical products.

Various uses

Bioinformaticians can also work in marketing and sales of special software solutions in the field of bioinformatics. They advise customers on the acquisition of hardware and software or inform about computer services and train users of bioinformatics software.

Those who have completed a master's program often assume management positions or work in science and research. At universities, for example, bioinformatics researchers are researching information processing in and between cells. In addition, they hold seminars and courses and take exams.