Master of Science in Bioinformatics

Please note: This programme is currently being revised. Starting in the 2027/28 winter semester, it is expected to be offered under the title: "Data Science for Life Sciences". Bioinformatics research in medicine and the life sciences is increasingly based on analysis and interpretation of biological mass data. The use of computers, combined with accurate mathematical models and efficient algorithms, is indispensable in this process. Building on the knowledge gained in a Bachelor's degree programme in bioinformatics, this programme offers advanced education in the corresponding subfields of mathematics, computer science, biology, and translational bioinformatics. The programme is jointly conducted by the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, the Department of Biology, Chemistry and Pharmacy and the Charité Medical School. It offers both in-depth theoretical courses and applied training in bioinformatics. This gives students the necessary knowledge and skills to identify relevant biological issues, develop appropriate mathematical or computational solutions to approach them, and interpret the results correctly in a biological or biomedical context. The following focus areas are offered to students: Complex Systems Advanced techniques for modelling, simulation, and analysis of complex networks and dynamic processes pave the way for understanding systems ranging from molecular interaction networks to ecosystems. Data Science This specialisation puts the data in the centre. State-of-the-art analysis and knowledge extraction techniques from modern statistics and machine learning will be explored and applied to realistic data sets. Consequences of the data generation process and topics pertaining to big data will also be considered. Advanced Algorithms The emphasis lies on advanced algorithms for bioinformatics analyses. This includes methods to generate search indices for very large sequencing data, efficient protein and RNA analysis, and the necessary computer science foundations to analyse and develop novel and efficient algorithms. Basic studies (30 credit points = CP) Three basic modules, 6 CP each, must be done within the first semester. All three modules consist of a lecture and an exercise/tutorial. These modules strengthen and deepen the methodological basics and prepare the students for the focus areas and optional courses. Foundations in Computer Science Foundations in Mathematics and Statistics Foundations in Bio-Medicine In addition, there is an introductory module provided (12 CP). This introductory module consists of a lecture series and a seminar: Introduction to Focus Areas: This introduces three profile areas (Advanced Algorithms, Complex Systems and Data Science) and should support the basis of decision-making for the student's own profile area. Profile area (30 CP) Starting in the second semester, students choose a profile area. Each profile area consists of the following: one Focus Area (15 CP) Module: Research Internship (10 CP) Module: Ethics and Policy Questions (5 CP) The following modules are compulsory in the respective focus area: Complex Systems: Module: Complex Systems in Bioinformatics (10 CP); Module: Complex Systems in Biomedical Applications (5 CP) Data Science: Module: Data Science in the Life Sciences (15 CP) Advanced Algorithms: Module: Advanced Algorithms for Bioinformatics (10 CP); Module: Methods in Life Sciences (5 CP) Elective area (30 CP) In the elective area, profile modules and elective modules are offered. Modules from the list of optional modules can be chosen freely with the following restrictions: Profile modules of at least 10 LP from the chosen profile area (Focus Area) must be completed. At least one V-module must be chosen and completed. At least one practical module must be selected and completed. Master's thesis with accompanying colloquium (30 CP) The Master's thesis is usually written in the fourth semester. The processing time is 23 weeks. During this time, the stu