Langara’s Bioinformatics Program: Where science meets innovation

Did you know that bioinformatics is one of the fastest-growing fields in science and technology? By combining biology, computer science, and statistics, bioinformatics helps solve complex biological problems such as genome sequencing and the development of new vaccines.

As the only institution in British Columbia that offers a bachelor’s degree in bioinformatics, Langara College provides students the unique interdisciplinary training required to address the rapidly growing demand for skilled bioinformaticians in various industries.

To learn more about this groundbreaking program, we spoke with coordinators Chinmaya Mahapatra and Prashant Kumar, as well as Patricia Aroca-Ouellete, the Applied Science division chair.

Bridging the gap between Biology and Technology

The completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003 sparked a surge in demand for researchers with a highly specific set of skills. According to Prashant Kumar, the need to integrate these disciplines was critical:

“We had biologists who needed to go back and learn computer science, or computer scientists who had to learn a bit of biology. This was self-taught. Our bioinformatics program addresses this gap by integrating the two fields from the start,” says Kumar.

Launched in September 2020, the bioinformatics bachelor’s program quickly distinguished itself as a unique offering in the scientific landscape. It is the only program in the lower mainland to offer a comprehensive mix of theoretical and practical learning.

Chinmaya Mahapatra, a faculty member in the Computer Science department, oversees the informatics side of the curriculum. He sees the creation of the program as a necessity for our future world:

“Biological analysis has transitioned from the lab to computational simulations, making bioinformatics an exciting discipline.”

Applicable training

Langara’s bioinformatics program prioritizes hands-on learning through co-op placements and capstone projects. “Our program stands out because of its applied, hands-on approach,” says Patricia Aroca-Ouellete. “Students graduate with real-world experience, which is key to succeeding in this field.”

Langara’s bioinformatics program has cultivated strong partnerships with organizations such as BioTalent Canada, Life Sciences BC, and the Vancouver Bioinformatics Users Group (VanBUG). Prashant ascribes this to the program’s focus on producing students who possess certain in-demand skillsets.

“Students gain skills in classes, co-op, and their capstone projects. For example, the use of machine learning to analyze ecological data is a growing trend, and our program is at the forefront of preparing students for these opportunities.”

Boasting a co-operative education program which provides students the opportunity to gain valuable paid work experience while completing their studies. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers in healthcare, agricultural technology, environmental science, and even data analysis for tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft. While many work in traditional roles such as genomic and protein sequencing, Mahapatra points out that other graduates branch into emerging fields:

“Bioinformatics is not just about healthcare. Our alumni are equally equipped to work in agriculture, software development and ecology—fields that are rapidly expanding in BC.”

Building toward the future

Despite its relative youth, Langara’s bioinformatics program has already made significant strides. The faculty’s dedication to fostering industry connections, coupled with a curriculum that emphasizes practical skills, ensures that the next generation of bioinformaticians is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

As the program continues to grow, so too does its impact. For students considering a career in bioinformatics, Langara offers not just an education but a launching pad into a field that is shaping the future of science and technology. Whether it’s decoding the human genome, advancing personalized medicine, or tackling environmental challenges, Langara’s bioinformatics program equips its graduates to make a difference.

Ready to launch your career in this cutting-edge field? Learn more about Langara’s Bachelor of Science in Bioinformatics and how you can join a program that’s redefining the future of science and technology.