Bioinformatics and Computational Biology MSc

During my undergraduate studies, I was introduced to the value of genomics in research. I completed a largely bioinformatics-based final year project in plant genetics, and was eager to continue down this avenue of study. The MSc programme in UCC really appealed to me because of the modules they offered, as well as the opportunity to complete a summer research project. The MSc programme has allowed me to develop my skills in a number of areas. We were taught coding (in Python, R and SQL), mathematics (statistics and discrete maths) and genomic data analysis. It was a steep learning curve at times, but we learned a lot. I’d like to complete a PhD in bioinformatics, and the skills that I’ve learned in UCC will be an invaluable resource to help me fulfil this goal. It has also provided me with the opportunity to get to know some lecturers in UCC, who I will hopefully get a chance to work with in future.

After completing my degree in Genetics, I knew that Bioinformatics was the next step for me. I really enjoyed the Bioinformatics modules in my undergrad. I also liked how many new doors it would present to me in employment. I knew that this Masters would be challenging, however, I couldn’t see myself doing anything else. I have opened up another world of job opportunities by doing this course. I have expanded my skillset to the point that I am now considering jobs in sectors that I have never thought would be possible for me. The course content has allowed me to learn how to confidently code – a skill that was almost non-existent to me before starting this course. I have gained invaluable knowledge into areas of data science and mathematical modelling. By having the ability to delve into these areas of informatics, I have now learned that I am very interested in areas that I wouldn’t have even considered prior to doing this course.