Bioinformatics and Genomic Medicine

The Aston Bioinformatics and Genomic Medicine MSc is a new programme launched in 2025.

Genomics is transforming the way we understand diseases, develop treatments, and deliver personalised healthcare. This has created an urgent need for professionals who can connect biological science with data-driven insights. Bioinformatics combines biology with computational and statistical methods to analyse complex datasets, while genomic medicine applies genetic discoveries to improve healthcare and create targeted therapies. The MSc provides the advanced knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive at the forefront of this medical transformation.

This programme is designed for graduates and professionals from biology, medicine, or data science. You will develop expertise in data analysis, disease mechanisms, and translational genomics, while building advanced skills in computational biology, statistical modelling, and emerging genomic technologies. These capabilities will prepare you to drive innovation and contribute to the future of precision medicine.

An MRes in Bioinformatics and Genomic Medicine At Aston is also available for those seeking a research-focused alternative.

Students have access to a range of specialist facilities that reflect the hands-on learning within the field. In these settings, you gain practical experience alongside like-minded students, with workshops and lectures guided by industry professionals.

At Aston University, students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities designed to provide a hands-on, immersive learning experience in bioinformatics and genomic medicine. Our cutting-edge resources ensure that you gain practical expertise in data analysis, computational biology, and genomics research, working alongside like-minded peers and industry professionals.

Cutting-edge facilities and equipment

• Advanced data analysis laboratory, equipped with high-performance computing resources for large-scale genomic data processing and analysis.
• Industry-standard specialist software - access to cutting-edge bioinformatics tools, including Galaxy, GATK, Nextflow, R, Python, and AI-driven genomic analysis platforms.
• Genomics experimentation and testing rooms - dedicated spaces for hands-on practical sessions, allowing students to explore real-world applications of bioinformatics in research.
• Collaborative research labs - larger lab spaces designed for team-based genomic data analysis, fostering collaboration on research projects and interdisciplinary problem-solving.

These facilities ensure that students develop real-world skills in data-driven research, genomic interpretation, and precision medicine applications, preparing them for careers at the forefront of healthcare and biotechnology.

1. Deliver advanced, state-of-the-art education in bioinformatics and genomic medicine, equipping students with theoretical knowledge and practical expertise to address challenges in health and disease. 
2. Prepare graduates for future careers in academia, healthcare (e.g., NHS), or the life sciences industry, or for further academic training such as PhD studies.  
3. Provide comprehensive training in programming languages and computational tools essential for bioinformatics analyses, enabling students to work across genomics and other omics disciplines. 
4. Explore the role of bioinformatics in genomic medicine, with a focus on the transformative potential of personalized medicine for improving patient outcomes. 
5. Develop expertise in pharmacogenomics, cancer genomics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, enabling students to apply these technologies to analyse healthcare data, identify drug targets, and advance precision medicine. 
6. Foster independent research skills through hands-on experience in genomic analysis, culminating in a 60-credit research-intensive project that integrates ethical research practices, critical analysis, and effective communication.  

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course web pages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.

Minimum 2.2 degree in a subject aligned to health, biosciences, mathematics/data sciences.

If you have a science, data or medical background and wish to advance your career, or looking at a career change this might be the course for you.

This programme is also an opportunity for intercalated medical students.

See international student information below for international equivalent information.

Course fees

The duration of this programme is set out at the top of this course page and you will be responsible for the payment of an annual tuition fee in each of these years. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees annually in accordance with its Terms and Conditions. This means that your total tuition fee may be higher than stated above, but your total tuition fee will never increase by more than 6% year on year. An increase in fees will allow the University to cover the increased costs of delivering the course and ensure it is able to maintain high standards of education and facilities.

The global demand for bioinformatics and genomic medicine professionals is rapidly growing as genomic data continues to reshape healthcare and medical practices. Whether you aim to work in research, clinical settings, or the biotechnology industry, this programme opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities such as:

•    Bioinformatics analyst
•    Genomics data scientist
•    Clinical bioinformatician
•    Genomic medicine specialist
•    Research scientist in genetics or biomedical informatics

Graduates of this programme will be well-equipped to work in environments such as hospitals, private practice, specialist clinics, education, rehabilitation centres, or private sector business.