Citation
Morris, B. (2001), "New center for bioinformatics and computational biology", International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, Vol. 14 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/ijhcqa.2001.06214fab.004
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2001, MCB UP Limited
New center for bioinformatics and computational biology
New center for bioinformatics and computational biology
The National Institute of General Medical Sciences in the USA, another of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has established a new Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology (CBCB) to support research and training in areas that join biology with the computer sciences, engineering, mathematics, and physics.
A key goal of computational biologists and bioinformatics scientists is to use computer technologies to solve enormously complex biomedical problems, such as how cells communicate and how organs or embryos develop. In particular, the flood of data generated by the Human Genome Project and by an ongoing explosion of recent advances in genomics has created an urgent need for researchers to use sophisticated and powerful computer techniques to sift through the reams of new data.
The key research goals of CBCB will be to encourage biomedical scientists and quantitative researchers to work together to:
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generate mathematical models of biological networks;
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develop modelling and simulation tools;
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conduct basic theoretical studies related to the organisation of biological networks; and
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develop bioinformatics tools for analysing and storing data.
The Center will also assume oversight of NIHs Biomedical Information Science and Technology Initiative (BISTI) through its management of the BISTI Consortium (BISTIC).
The goal of this initiative is to make optimal use of computer science and technology to address problems in biology and medicine. BISTIC is composed of senior-level representatives from the NIH institutes and Centers and representatives of other Federal agencies concerned with bioinformatics and computer-based applications.