Graph Algorithms in Genome Sequencing
The University of California, San Diego
Learn how graphs are used to assemble millions of pieces of DNA into a contiguous genome and use these genomes to construct a Tree of Life.
About this Course
In this course, part of the Algorithms and Data Structures MicroMasters program, you will learn how graph algorithms are used in two fundamental problems in modern biology: How do we sequence a genome? How do we construct an evolutionary “Tree of Life?" In the first part of the course, you will learn how genome sequencing relies on using a graph to assemble millions of tiny DNA fragments into a contiguous genome. We will then shift gears and learn how to construct an evolutionary tree of life from genome data.
What You'll Learn
- Graph algorithms
- Algorithms for genome assembly
- Phylogenetics
Prerequisites
- at least one programming language: loops, arrays, stacks, recursion.
- mathematics: proof by induction, proof by contradiction.
Instructors
Pavel Pevzner
Ronald R. Taylor Professor of Computer Science
Phillip Compeau
Assistant Teaching Professor