The University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Science has recently added two new majors to the Bachelor of Science: Computational Biology and Mechatronics Systems.
Computational Biology Major
In the Computational Biology major, students will gain an understanding of the analysis and interpretation of biological phenomena using mathematical and statistical models, computational tools and the algorithmic design and analysis of such models and tools. Based in the Parkville biomedical precinct, students will learn from academics who are experts in their field and use the latest theories and technologies in their teaching practices. The Parkville biomedical precinct is also home to the Victorian Life Sciences Computation Initiative (VLSCI) which houses one of the fastest super computers in the southern hemisphere. The IBM Blue Gene/Q has 836 teraflops of processing power, which is equivalent to over 20,000 desktop computers. For more information, visit the Computational Biology website.
Mechatronics Systems Major
What is Mechatronics? Think exciting new developments like self-driving cars or drone imagery. Mechatronic engineers are some of the people behind these new technologies, using their expertise in computing, electronics and mechanical engineering to design and maintain machinery with electronic and computer control systems, such as aircrafts, robots, motor vehicles, cameras, power generators and chemical plant machinery. In the Mechatronics Systems major students will develop strong skills in the mathematical modelling of the behaviour, response, and control of mechanical systems that can perform physical tasks. Students will also learn about electronic sensors used for sensing of the environment and the instrumentation required to support them and use of computer programming skills for interfacing computers with machines. To learn more, visit the website.
Getting started in science videos
The Faculty of Science has also released a range of helpful new videos designed to help students learn more about the various areas of study available through the Bachelor of Science. These colourful, engaging videos will help students to make more informed decisions about which subjects and majors to select as they plan their undergraduate course enrolment. To watch the videos, visit the Getting Started in Science webpage.
Science and Technology Internships
Bachelor of Science students can now undertake a Science and Technology Internship subject which will offer real experience working in a science or technology related workplace. The internship will help students to identify and articulate their knowledge and skills and apply them to relevant contexts and work-settings, produce original work in an appropriate format which demonstrates analytical, research and problem-solving skills, understand the value of industry and professional networks and their importance to lifelong learning and career progression and develop greater confidence in their ability to contribute to a science-related workplace, awareness of the strengths they offer to a future employer as well as areas to further develop beyond their degree. To learn more about his exciting new subject, visit the website.