Program Overview

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Master of Science in Microbiology and Immunology with Specialization in Bioinformatics

The Master of Science in Microbiology and Immunology with Specialization in Bioinformatics is a research-based program that refines critical and intellectual skills in specific areas and fields of specialization. The program prepares candidates for a variety of teaching and research careers inside and outside the academic world.

Program Description

The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of microbiology and immunology, as well as the principles and methods of bioinformatics. Students will acquire autonomy in research and scientific writing through specialized courses, research seminars, and independent research leading to a thesis.

Program Requirements

• Grade: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
• Enrollment status: Full-time
• Language of instruction: English
• Primary program: M.Sc. in Microbiology and Immunology
• Specialization: Bioinformatics
• Study option: With thesis (6 full-time terms, equivalent to 24 consecutive months)
• Academic unit: Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology

Admission Requirements

• Hold a bachelor's degree with specialization or major (or equivalent) in biochemistry, biology, or microbiology with a minimum average of 75% (B+)
• Have a good academic record and research experience as demonstrated by official transcripts, research reports, and other supporting documents
• Identify a professor willing to supervise research and thesis
• Be sponsored by a professor from the interdisciplinary specialization, usually their research supervisor, who has a regular, cross-appointment, or adjunct appointment in the primary program

Linguistic Requirements

Candidates must understand, write, and speak fluently the language of instruction of the program they wish to enroll in. Proof of linguistic competence may be required.

Program Structure

The program includes:

• Compulsory courses (MIC):
  • MED 8566: Attitude and Professional Competencies
  • MIC 5100: Pathogen Interactions and Host
  • 3 credits of graduate-level courses in microbiology and immunology
• Compulsory courses (BNF):
  • BNF 5106: Bioinformatics
• Seminars:
  • BNF 6500: Master's Seminar 1
  • MIC 5366: MSc Seminar 2
• Thesis:
  • THM 7999: Master's Thesis

Research Areas

The program focuses on various research areas, including:

• Microbiology
• Host biology

Other Programs Offered

• Master of Science in Microbiology and Immunology (M.Sc.)
• Master of Science in Microbiology and Immunology with Specialization in Pathology and Experimental Medicine (M.Sc.)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Microbiology and Immunology (Ph.D.)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Microbiology and Immunology with Specialization in Pathology and Experimental Medicine (Ph.D.)

Tuition Fees

The estimated cost of tuition fees for this program is available under the "Financing your studies" section.

Funding

International students enrolled in a French-language program may be eligible for a partial tuition fee exemption.

Notes

• Programs are governed by the general regulations in effect for graduate studies.
• In accordance with the University of Ottawa's regulations, work, exams, papers, and theses may be completed in French or English.
• The language of instruction is English.

Course Descriptions

MIC 5100: Pathogen Interactions and Host

This course examines current issues in microbiology and immunology, focusing on host-pathogen interactions at the molecular level.

MIC 5366: MSc Seminar

Attendance at two half-day symposia with guest speakers, attendance and participation in the annual BMI Student Symposium and BMI Poster Day, and attendance at BMI seminars relevant to microbiology and immunology.

BNF 5106: Bioinformatics

Major concepts and methods of bioinformatics, including genetics, statistics, and probability theory, alignments, phylogenetics, genomics, data mining, and protein structure.

BNF 6500: Master's Seminar

Current topics in bioinformatics presented by program professors and invited speakers, with oral presentation and written report required.

Research at the University of Ottawa

The University of Ottawa is one of the top 10 research universities in Canada, with a strong focus on excellence, relevance, and impact. Research areas include:

• Creating a sustainable environment
• Promoting just societies
• Shaping the digital world
• Fostering health and well-being throughout life

Research at the Faculty of Medicine

The Faculty of Medicine has a long history of cutting-edge research, with many large-scale projects conducted in partnership with affiliated teaching hospitals and research institutes. These collaborations lead to biomedical discoveries with significant impacts on healthcare.

Facilities, Centers, and Research Institutes

The Faculty of Medicine has various research facilities, centers, and institutes, including:

• Center for Neurodynamics
• Ottawa Center for Neuromuscular Disease
• Biopharmaceutical and Biotechnology Research Center
• Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery
• Kidney Research Center
• University of Ottawa Skills and Simulation Center
• Medical Device Innovation Institute
• Ottawa Institute for Systems Biology
• Brain and Mind Research Institute

Comprehensive Examination

A comprehensive examination is required for all graduate students.

Bioinformatics Courses

• BNF 5104: Bioinformatics Laboratory
• BNF 5106: Bioinformatics
• BNF 5107: Applied Bioinformatics
• BNF 6100: MSc Seminar
• BNF 8166: Seminar in Bioinformatics
• BNF 8301: Evolutionary Bioinformatics
• BNF 8766: Séminaire en bioinformatique