Introduction to bioinformatics is the subject of an academic seminar
Mathematician Luís Felipe Cunha spoke to the students on Wednesday (12)
13/2/2025
Mathematician Luís Felipe Ignácio Cunha, a professor at the Computing Institute of UFF (Fluminense Federal University), was the guest speaker at the IMPA Tech academic seminar on Wednesday (12). He gave a brief introduction to the area of bioinformatics, an interdisciplinary field that corresponds to the application of computer science techniques, in the sense of information analysis, in the areas of study of biology.
The professor began his presentation by exploring the main objects of study in bioinformatics, addressing essential elements of biology and their relevance to the field, such as DNA – a nucleic acid that contains an individual’s genetic information – and genomes, which correspond to the complete DNA sequence.
Then, dealing with the intersection between mathematics and computing, Cunha introduced concepts of combinatorics, computational complexity and algorithms, highlighting challenges such as ordering permutations, string compression and graph analysis.
The meeting reinforced the interdisciplinary nature of science and how there are still areas to be developed. “These events, as well as giving us professional prospects, break down the old stigma that science is complete and highlight the gaps and opportunities it still offers. Communication with other federal universities in Rio de Janeiro also brings us closer together and is beneficial for both sides,” said student Gabriely Rocha.
Tomaz Cavalcante also enjoyed the activity. “Combining mathematics and computing with biology is something that interests me a lot. I intend to work with applied science in an interdisciplinary way, so these meetings catch my attention. I didn’t know about bioinformatics, but I thought it was great to be able to learn about new possibilities,” said the student.
The seminar was organized by Professor Ueverton Souza, who is in charge of the scientific meetings this term. The previous meeting, held on January 22, dealt with “Computational Problems in Musical Arrangement”. Remember it here.
Read more: List of professors approved for IMPA Tech released
See also: Students attend the play ‘Martinho, Coração de Rei’, at the Riachuelo Theater
