Question 1

What is genomics, and why is it important to learn about?

Accepted Answer

Genomics is the study of the ways in which all of the genes in an organism’s DNA - its genome - interact with each other and the environment. While the basic theory of DNA is over a century old, the sequencing of the first complete human genome was only accomplished relatively recently, in 2003 as part of the Human Genome Project. In recent years, the study of the genomics of humans and other organisms has emerged as an important enabler of advances in many areas including the prevention and treatment of disease, improvement of the sustainability and productivity of agriculture, and furthering our understanding of the biology of humans, plants, and animals.

Human beings have over 3 billion DNA pairs and 20,000 genes in their genomes, which can influence everything from our physical appearance to the functioning of our organ systems. Given this enormous complexity, rapid advances in the field of data science along with its application to molecular biology through the related disciplines of computational biology and bioinformatics has made it possible to compare, analyze, and draw insights from genomics far more rapidly than ever before. Genomics data science researchers today typically rely on familiar software implementation tools like Python and R as well as more specialized programs including Bioconductor and Galaxy.

Question 2

What kinds of careers can I have with a background in genomics?

Accepted Answer

If you are passionate about both human health and technology, a career in genomics science can be incredibly exciting and rewarding. Genomics represents the cutting edge of medical science and computational biology, offering the potential for radically new treatments for disease and a much deeper understanding of how DNA and genes influence who we are.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical scientists earn a median annual salary of $88,790 per year, and these jobs are expected to grow faster than the national average. These researchers typically have a doctorate degree in biology, medicine, or both, as one might expect for a field that integrates the two disciplines.

Question 3

Can I learn about genomics by taking online courses on Coursera?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Coursera offers opportunities to learn about a wide range of subjects in biology and medicine, and genomics sits at the intersection of both. You can take courses and Specializations spanning multiple courses in genomics from a variety of perspectives, including genomic data science, from top-ranked schools like Johns Hopkins University, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, University of California San Diego. And, because you can view course materials and complete coursework on a flexible schedule, learning about genomics on Coursera can fit with your existing work or student life.

Question 4

What kinds of people are best suited for roles in genomics?

Accepted Answer

If you're a patient, analytical person with great problem-solving and communication skills, you might be suited to a career in genomics. Typically, people in genomics are critical thinkers, they have a strong aptitude for math, they have good time-management skills, and they work well alone and with others. These skills and traits are beneficial because a career in genomics often involves conducting complex research, analyzing the results, and presenting findings to team members or the public.

Question 5

What are common career paths for someone in genomics?

Accepted Answer

With a background in genomics, you can become a genomics researcher, a person who studies the effects of genes and gene interaction on health and development. If you're interested in the ethical side of genomics, you can conduct ELSI (ethical, legal, and social implications) research, which examines how new genetic information affects people, families, and society as a whole. With a genomics background, you can become a genomic medical clinician (a nurse, doctor, physician assistant, or pharmacist that specializes in genetics-related care), or you can pursue a career as a genetic counselor. This is a professional counselor that specializes in helping individuals or families make decisions regarding genetics-related health issues. If you love sharing knowledge, you can become a college or university professor in the field of genomics.

Question 6

What types of places hire people with a background in genomics?

Accepted Answer

If you have a background in genomics, you can go to work in a large hospital or a university laboratory. Other places that hire people with a genomics background include biotech companies, pharmaceutical companies, and government agencies. The field of genomics is expanding rapidly, so employment opportunities around the world are plentiful.

Question 7

What topics can I study that are related to genomics?

Accepted Answer

If you're interested in the sciences, you can study genomics-related topics like molecular biology, biochemistry, forensic science, or pathology. If you're drawn to the social sciences, you can study genealogy, physical anthropology, experimental psychology, or ethics.

Question 8

What are the benefits of taking an online Genomics course?

Accepted Answer

Online Genomics courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Genomics skills. Choose from a wide range of Genomics courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.

Question 9

What Genomics courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce?

Accepted Answer

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Genomics, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.

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Explore the Genomics Course Catalog

Big Data Science with the BD2K-LINCS Data Coordination and Integration Center

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Frequently Asked Questions about Genomics

What is genomics, and why is it important to learn about?‎

What kinds of careers can I have with a background in genomics?‎

Can I learn about genomics by taking online courses on Coursera?‎

What kinds of people are best suited for roles in genomics?‎

What are common career paths for someone in genomics?‎

What types of places hire people with a background in genomics?‎

What topics can I study that are related to genomics?‎

What are the benefits of taking an online Genomics course?‎

What Genomics courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce?‎

Other topics to explore