Analyze biological sequence data with hands-on, cloud-based bioinformatics tools.
There are numerous algorithms available as freeware or by public access in the cloud that make complex biological sequence analyses accessible to everyone. This self-paced, introductory course, aimed at professionals who want to break into the sequencing-related field of bioinformatics, explores important public access tools used for analyzing biological sequence data.
Through hands-on examples and exercises, you will learn how to access public databases for raw sequence data and perform the basic steps in processing next-generation sequence data for RNA, DNA, and ChIP sequencing data to obtain interpretable results.
You will get to explore the analytical parts of next-gen sequencing without having to do wet lab work because we’ve designed this course for people who are interested in a quick introduction to tools that allow for quick problem-solving without a deep theoretical understanding of how the tools work.
Most job postings for technicians and scientists in the molecular biology field ask for experience with next-gen sequencing. Having experience with the analytical tools is considered a plus on job applications.
UCSC EXTENSION Approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider Number 13114, for 30 contact hours
Online Traditional courses have a structured learning environment and fixed deadlines. This course is largely self-study with instructor guidance and includes online learning modules, assignments, and/or quizzes. All course materials and assignments will be available on Canvas, our learning management system.
For this section, student access begins on January 6. All course work must be completed by 11:59 pm on April 7, 2026.
You will be granted access in Canvas to your course site and course materials approximately 24 hours prior to the published start date of the course.
Required Tools and Materials: An internet capable computer that has at least 100 gigabytes of free hard disk space.
