Genetics, the study of genes and how traits are passed down from one generation to another, and genomics, the study of a complete set of an organism’s genes (including DNA and RNA), are vitally important, complex fields of study that help to:
- inform the function of genes
- uncover what elements control gene expression
- identify genetic variants associated with diseases
- predict risks based on an individual’s genetic makeup
- envision solutions to genetic-based challenges
As such, genetics and genomics are complex and ever-evolving disciplines that require skilled, knowledgeable professionals who can analyze genetic/genomics data and make fact-based solutions that will ultimately improve the health and quality of life of diverse individuals.
You have the unmatched opportunity to engage with a community that is making strides to augment the human experience through genetic data analysis — let’s get into what genetic data analysis is and why it matters today.
What is Genetic Data Analysis?
Existing at the intersection of biology, technology, data science, and healthcare, the subfield of genetic data analysis is focused on collecting and interpreting genetic information that empowers medical professionals to communicate data-driven, strategic discoveries that inform the impacts of human genetics on individuals and ultimately, results in the betterment for all humankind.
Through computational biology research, statistical data science, and computer science methodologies, genetic analysts utilize data from DNA sequences to both research genetic abnormalities and uncover novel solutions.
Genetic data analysts then collaborate with other entities, such as research organizations, clinical laboratories, and other analysts to share genomic findings. This data sharing allows for the exchange of information that results in the development of cutting-edge treatments for genetic illnesses and the discovery of precise, personalized medical treatments based on the identification of individual genetic markers.
Examples of Genetic Data Analysis Today
Genetic data analysis is used to perpetuate progress in areas, such as:
- research in the life sciences: studying genetic codes to understand how genes interact and how these interactions affect an individual’s development and health
- disease diagnostics: monitoring and diagnosing specific diseases to determine treatment and potential preventative health measures
- drug development: developing effective drug treatments to address health challenges related to genetic diseases
- forensic science: using genomic analysis to identify suspects in criminal matters or to exonerate innocent individuals in legal proceedings
- population research: gaining insights into historical human migration and population development
Why Genetic Data Analysis Matters
Studying human genetics and its impacts on human lives enables medical professionals to advance scientific breakthroughs throughout diverse disciplines.
Genetic data analysis is critical, and studying genetics is important because it:
- provides an understanding of where we’ve been (connecting old research to new discoveries)
- enables us to see where we’re headed (implementing new technologies to measure potential progress areas)
- changes the lives of people waiting on a diagnosis (providing more-rapid answers for those seeking medical diagnoses and treatment)
- helps to customize and personalize medicine (offering individualized treatment based on diverse genetic makeup)
All of these applications (and myriad others) are the result of groundbreaking, impactful medical advancements that make genetic data analysis not only a dynamic, exciting field of study — but a critically important one that is projected to pave the way for life changing discoveries that improve the quality of life for diverse individuals all over the planet.
Careers in Genomics and Genetic Data Analysis
Careers within the field of genomic and genetic data analysis are dynamic and competitive — if not increasingly vital to the progress of the medical field and humankind as a whole. Here are just a few of the top positions for professionals who emerge from a graduate degree that is focused on genetic data analysis:
- variant curator
- clinical variant scientist
- clinical genomics scientist
- genomic data scientist
- research scientist
Where do genetic data analysts work? Clinical genomics industry professionals also have a strong foundation in human genetics coupled with bioinformatics skills that empowers them to succeed at clinical genomics labs, research centers, or biotech and pharmaceutical companies as they develop new products and workflows for the age of personalized medicine.
The Future of Healthcare Starts Here: Keck Graduate Institute’s Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genomic Data Analytics
"My decision to come to KGI was influenced by the close-knit, supportive community that is clearly present among the staff and students. In pursuing genetics and genomic data analytics, I seek a career in an exciting field where discoveries are constantly being made and where I hope to be a part of the clinical workspace and on a broader level, positively impact human health."
— Rhea Kerawala, MS in Human Genetics and Genomic Data Analytics, 2022
Fueled by the expertise coming out of the Keck Graduate Institute’s School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, the 21-month Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genomic Data Analytics (MSGDA) is a first-of-its-kind graduate degree program. The MSGDA prepares students for the exciting field of genomic data analytics through a unique combination of foundational coursework in human genetics, cutting-edge courses in the applied life sciences, and a groundbreaking human genomics curriculum.
Tip: Check out another impactful program offered at the Keck Graduate Institute: the Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling.
MSGDA students have the valuable opportunity to learn from both seasoned and emerging genetic counselors and applied life scientists who are all working to gain hands-on experience with the technologies and information revolutionizing medicine’s future — and to ultimately, revolutionize the future of medicine for the betterment of humankind.
Within the MSGDA program, there are three concentrations depending on student interest:
- Clinical decision support — designed for those interested in helping clinicians interpret patient data for personalized medicine in careers such as clinical variant curator or genomic data scientist.
- Clinical trial design — designed for those interested in contributing to personalized medicine by working at a pharmaceutical or biotech company in the drug development pipeline.
- Assay development — designed for those interested in using genomics knowledge to develop new clinical assays or products for the diagnosis of disease.
Connect with a Community of Genetic Researchers and Applied Life Scientists at the Keck Graduate Institute
Transform the field of genomic and genetic data analysis at the Keck Graduate Institute with a respected, unique STEM-focused graduate degree that is designed to prepare future genetics and data analytics professionals to impact the future of medicine.
This program is a perfect, strategic choice for those looking to engage in:
- personalized or precision medicine
- drug development using genetics and genomics
- development of new genetic or genomic tests
- development of direct-to-consumer genomic tests or products
- big data to advance health
To learn more about the MS in Human Genetics and Genomic Data Analytics, you may request more information. Or, you take this opportunity to reach out to our admissions team to learn more about joining the community of medical revolutionaries at the Keck Graduate Institute.
You may also explore our cost and aid resources or start your application today.
