Department of Bioinformatics

Chairperson’s Message:
Bioinformatics; first coined in 1970’s correspondence between Hesper and Hogeweg as a term to describe “the study of informatics processes in biotic systems” has since evolved into an invaluable skill in a biologist’s skillset. The Department of Bioinformatics at the Faculty of Computing and Information Technology, considering the burgeoning field of bioinformatics, since it was first established in 2002, has been committed to nurture a community of passionate learners and researchers with the necessary skills and knowledge to address the complex challenges in data-rich research.

I, being the Chairperson of the Department of Bioinformatics, strongly believe that Bioinformatics plays a crucial role in unlocking the mysteries of life through the analysis and interpretation of biological data, with the amalgam of Computer Science, Mathematics and Statistics.

“Biology and Computer Science – Life and Computation – are related. I am confident that at their interface great discoveries await those who seek them”

Leonard Adleman
Father of DNA Computing

Our department is dedicated towards providing a stimulating and inclusive learning environment that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. We have graduated more than 100 BS and MS students. We have skilled faculty members with strong technical and computational knowledge relevant to the field of Bioinformatics. Our exceptional faculty members are the professional members of IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBS), who are actively engaged in cutting-edge research that spans genomics, proteomics, systems biology, computational biology, gene expression analysis, network biology and more. They are committed to impart their knowledge and expertise to our students and guide them in their academic and research pursuits.

The department is proud of its enthusiastic and cooperative academics that do cutting-edge research solving complex biological problems. We devote ourselves to undergraduate education, encouraging students’ curiosity about biological concerns by immersing them in curricula that foster critical thinking and by inviting them to participate in research to make them active participants in scientific advancement. If you’re a potential student, I strongly advise you to look over our course work, curriculum, and other features that set our department apart. Please refer to the admissions material on our IIU website if you are interested in enrolling in our Bioinformatics program.

Welcome to our world; it is a wonderful place to be, where your future begins !!!

Dr. Mehrosh Khalid
Chairperson, Department of Bioinformatics
 
Vision:
To develop a research-based bioinformatics hub by harnessing the power of data and computational techniques to unravel the mysteries of life, through advanced interdisciplinary research and collaboration to drive discoveries in genomics, proteomics, and personalized medicine that will empowering future generations of bioinformaticians to lead the way in data-driven biological research and healthcare advancements.
 
Mission:
Our mission is to provide a rigorous and comprehensive education in bioinformatics, combining biology, computer science, mathematics and statistics to inculcate strong theoretical, practical, research and analytical skills in the subject domain and thereby prepare the students for both employability and entrepreneurship.
 
Core Values:
Our main values are:

  • Credibility: Trust is our framework, it is built on our actions and performance.
  • Creativity: Our innovative thinking and critical analysis create new alternatives for resolving complex biological problems.
  • Objectivity: Using our wide platform of knowledge seeking facts and thinking effectively to reach objective and accurate results.
Goals:
  • Promote cutting-edge research: To foster a vibrant research environment that encourages faculty and students to engage in innovative and impactful bioinformatics research. We strive to push the boundaries of knowledge, addressing key biological questions and contributing to advancements in the field.
  • Provide exceptional education: To deliver high-quality education in bioinformatics, equipping students with a strong foundation in biological sciences, computer science, and data analysis. We aim to cultivate critical thinking, analytical skills, and interdisciplinary expertise to prepare graduates for successful careers in bioinformatics.
  • Foster collaboration and partnerships: To establish collaborations and partnerships with academic institutions, research organizations, and industry stakeholders. By fostering collaboration, we aim to facilitate knowledge exchange, share resources, and promote interdisciplinary research that accelerates scientific discovery and innovation.
  • Contribute to society and healthcare: To make a positive impact on society and healthcare through bioinformatics. We strive to develop tools, algorithms, and methodologies that contribute to the understanding of complex biological processes, disease mechanisms, and the development of personalized medicine approaches, ultimately improving human health outcomes.
Desired Outcomes:
The graduates completing Bioinformatics degree are expected to meet international standards as follows:

  • Comprehensive knowledge and skills: Graduates will possess a deep understanding of bioinformatics principles, methodologies, and tools, enabling them to effectively analyze biological data and interpret complex biological phenomena.
  • Interdisciplinary proficiency: Graduates will demonstrate proficiency in integrating biological sciences, computer science, and statistics, equipping them with a unique interdisciplinary perspective and the ability to collaborate with researchers from diverse fields.
  • Research competence: Graduates will have developed strong research skills, including experimental design, data analysis, and critical thinking. They will be equipped to contribute to cutting-edge research, advance the field of bioinformatics, and make meaningful contributions to scientific discoveries.
  • Career readiness: Graduates will be well-prepared for a range of career opportunities in academia, industry, and healthcare. They will possess the necessary skills to tackle complex biological problems, drive innovation, and contribute to advancements in fields such as genomics, personalized medicine, drug discovery, and data-driven healthcare.
For any query please contact:
Name of Coordinator Office address Contact Details
Ms. Yasmin Kausar,
Assistant Director
Room No. B-005, Basement Floor, Hazrat Maryam Block, Female Campus, International Islamic University, H-10, Islamabad
Ph#: 051-9019839
Ext: 2839
[email protected], [email protected]