CSCI 106(F) Life as an Algorithm (Same as Biology 106) (Q)
Can computers reproduce? Can DNA compute? Can evolution give us hints on
solving big problems? Is life's blueprint inefficient? This course looks at the way
computers are shaped by biological thinking, and the way that biologists make
use of computational theories. Topics range from artificial life to identification
of genes to the susceptibility of machines to viruses. Lectures investigate new
and novel ways of thinking about computers and biology. Labs experiment with
parameters of problems of common interest to computer scientists and biologists. Students will learn to use common programming tools to aid in the manipulation and analysis of basic biological data.
Format: lecture/laboratory. Evaluation will be based on performance on problem sets, laboratory assignments, and examinations.
No prerequisites. No programming or biology skills are assumed. This course is
not open to students who have completed Computer Science 136 or above. Enrollment limit: 50 (expected: 30).