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Bioinformatics Network Node

Profile

Broad developmental objectives

The main objective of the Node is to create a network of scientists among the countries of southern Africa for the development and implementation of a transnational program of work in bioinformatics. The Node will target scientists at universities and research institutions where the applications of such tools are most needed.

Purpose

The purpose is to help in the integration of computer science and information technology in areas of national priorities:

• human health and disease
• animal health
• agricultural science and crop improvement
• food security and food safety
• environment
• biodiversity and optimal use of genetic resources

Objectives

• Establish a network of scientists to work on the action across the Southern African region and to allow productive interactions between computer scientists and molecular biologists
• Provide practical training in specific areas of bioinformatics relevant to priority fields
• To enable postgraduate students to get involved in the activities
• To enhance the quality of research output from regional centres by providing the tools and skills required.

Beneficiaries

The beneficiaries will include scientists and students working in universities and research institutions. These are the same people who are already working on projects of national interest in their country. Academics will be able to take their know-how back to the classrooms thus giving this action a multiplier effect.

Results

It is estimated that the action will contribute to the enhancement of the quality of research and tertiary level teaching with the overall aim of producing graduates capable of taking up scientific challenges for the benefit of their country. In addition, it will also strengthen the research capabilities that are vital for addressing issues pertaining to the well-being of the nation. It is expected that a platform in bioinformatics will allow a transition from the traditional approach of scientific research to a more information-driven, knowledge-intensive strategy. A regional line of action will enhance the effectiveness and coherence of the program. The proposed initiative will direct the modernisation of universities and improve the perspectives of research careers.

This project will bring together academics from computer science and biology divisions with the goal of applying computer tools to study biological subjects. The outcome should help apply knowledge and skills in bioinformatics/biotechnology for better innovation and competitiveness in a global environment.

The target groups, as specified above, will be mainly academics from universities and research centres, while the final beneficiaries will include the graduates and other researchers.

Sustainability

This project is addressing a gap that exists between southern African institutions and others elsewhere. A preliminary workshop held in January 2009 indicated that the need to introduce bioinformatics in the region is urgently felt among academics.

The fact that academics who are already involved in research using molecular tools will be targeted, the output will have a multiplier effect since they will then train students. This action will not only consolidate the research activities but also encourage more interactions with external institutions that can further lead to more development in the field.

Above all this Node will invest in raising the level of university teaching in the region and therefore meet the high expectations of today's students.

This Node will set the stage for future activities between academia and industry whereby the scope of product development will be a major driving force for research.