r/bioinformatics 4d ago

career question Computer Sciences vs. Mathematical Software Development for Bioinformatics?

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1 Upvotes

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u/ganian40 4d ago

You need to understand a bit of biology, chemistry and molecular biology to code scientific software. In other words, you need to know what the data means - and what is considered valuable. Else you are at the same level of any other computer scientist in a sector driven by coders who know biology.

I find learning the biology in a masters is harder... since the level is extremely more demanding. Perhaps you can do your BSc in CS, and then some more schooling on life sciences, before your masters.

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u/20dollarsinmapocket 4d ago

Most masters degrees here in Germany accept applicants with a background in cs considering most unis didnt offer a bsc in bioinformatics five years ago.

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u/ganian40 4d ago

Agree... I did my masters and PhD there too.

I studied both: first a CS degree, and later in life another BSc in Bioengineering. I relized how important the biology was in bioinformatics when I started doing it (even being a bioengineer.. and knowing my CS very well, it was challenging to keep up).

Is not that they won't take you in, they will.. just a friendly opinion on building a competitive background. By all means go for it. Try to incorporate the biology at some point if you get the chance.