Using Your Computer Skills to Explore DNA
Genomics is an excellent area of research for students who are good with computers. If you are comfortable navigating somewhat complicated websites and enjoy manipulating and downloading computer files, then genomics might be a good fit for you.
So what exactly is genomics? Genomics is the study of the entire set of an organism's genes (or the genes of multiple organisms) and their functions, using techniques such as mapping, sequencing, analyzing and modeling. Genomics aims to look at all genes together as a complex and dynamic system. Specialists in genomics hope that their discoveries will lead to innovative new ways to design diagnostic tests as well as therapies to treat diseases. Check out some of the topics that are featured in the Project Ideas below:
- Using computer programs to identify, visualize, and analyze DNA sequences
- Using computational tools to investigate the causes of genetic diseases or to study the evolution of species
- Comparing human and animal DNA sequences to infer how closely related we are to those animals
Which Animals Have Genome Projects?
All animals have a genome, but do they all have genome projects? Find out which animals are currently having their genomes sequenced and how much we know already. Whose genomes are already finished? Whose genomes are just getting started? Find out by doing some simple bioinformatics data digging!
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Who Has the Biggest Genome?
Humans are complex creatures, but do we have the biggest genome? All living things, from humans to worms to bacteria have genomes. In this experiment you will compare the genome sizes of different organisms to find out who has the smallest and the largest genomes. Where will we fit in?
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Index of Genetics & Genomics Project Ideas |
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