#bioinformatics industry

[industrynewsupdates]

Bioinformatics Market Insights: Opportunities and Challenges

The global bioinformatics market was valued at USD 10.1 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.7% from 2023 to 2030. Several key factors are driving this growth, including the increasing demand for bioinformatics tools and software in novel drug research and development (R&D), as well as both private and public funding initiatives that are aimed at supporting R&D activities. Additionally, the introduction of user-friendly bioinformatics software such as RasMol, AUTODOCK, BALL, and Bioclipse has played a significant role in expanding the market. These software tools are widely used for the accurate analysis of biomarker discovery programs, which help in detecting toxicity during the early stages of the drug development process.

Advancements in DNA sequencing are also contributing to the growth of the bioinformatics market. For example, a study published by Stanford Medicine in January 2022 demonstrated a DNA sequencing technique capable of sequencing a human genome in about 8 hours. Such breakthroughs enhance the demand for genomics, thereby driving the bioinformatics sector. Bioinformatics applications in data storage and analysis are crucial for managing large volumes of genomic and proteomic data, which facilitate research in various fields, including aging, carcinogenesis, and genetic disease prevention. This growing capacity to store and analyze vast amounts of data is expected to significantly contribute to market expansion over the forecast period.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Bioinformatics Market

Product Insights

In terms of product categories, the bio-content management segment held the largest market share in 2022, accounting for 39.6% of the total market revenue. This can be attributed to the widespread use of bioinformatics tools in database management. These tools facilitate efficient data sharing with external databases and resources, thereby promoting data integration across various platforms. Genetic sequence analysis platforms are also poised to experience significant growth, driven by the increased demand for whole-genome sequencing and exome sequencing technologies, which have become more affordable due to reduced sequencing costs.

Bioinformatics is governed by various guidelines set by organizations such as the Human Genome Variation Society (HGVS), the Genomic Data Commons (GDC), and the Minimum Information About a Microarray Experiment (MIAME). Compliance with these standards ensures improved data compatibility, sharing, and collaboration. A noteworthy example of collaboration in this field occurred in April 2022, when ATCC entered into a partnership with Qiagen to share sequencing data from its collection of animal and human cell lines. This partnership aims to create a comprehensive database to aid in the development of therapeutic targets and the understanding of new diseases, which is crucial for both the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.

The bioinformatics market is divided into three primary product categories: bioinformatics platforms, bioinformatics services, and bio-content management. Among these, the bioinformatics services segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate, with a projected CAGR of 14.6% during the forecast period. Genomics has been the primary application area for bioinformatics, focusing on the analysis of entire DNA sequences. The increasing availability of genetic data, especially through next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, is driving demand for bioinformatics services, both in genomic research and clinical applications.

For instance, in July 2021, the National Institute of Technology in Rourkela, India, launched the Centre for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology (CBCB). This center focuses on the development of biomarkers and therapeutic strategies for various diseases using big data analytics, further boosting bioinformatics research and market growth, particularly in emerging markets.

The bioinformatics platforms segment is also expected to experience significant growth, driven by the increasing volume and complexity of biological data, the growing demand for personalized medicine, and the rise of cloud computing. The adoption of cloud-based platforms in bioinformatics enables better data sharing and collaboration between academic institutions, research organizations, and healthcare providers. Additionally, advancements in sequencing technologies continue to propel the demand for bioinformatics platforms.

Furthermore, the introduction of new and innovative technologies is expected to drive market expansion. For example, in June 2022, My Intelligent Machines (MIMs) launched software designed for drug development in oncology. Similarly, in March 2022, ARUP launched Rio, a bioinformatics analytics platform that streamlines results for next-generation sequencing tests. These developments highlight the increasing integration of bioinformatics into drug discovery and diagnostic workflows, further contributing to the market’s growth.

Order a free sample PDF of the Bioinformatics Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

[cbirt]

Enzymes that have been specially engineered can improve the application of biocatalysts in industrial biotransformations and help address the biotechnological problems of the twenty-first century. The rotamer inverted fragment finder–diffusion (Riff-Diff) approach, which scaffolds catalytic arrays in de novo protein backbones with customized substrate pockets, is a hybrid machine learning and atomistic modeling technique presented by researchers. Researchers utilized Riff-Diff to build a catalytic tetrad that can effectively catalyze the retro-aldol process. High fold variety is shown in functional designs, which have substrate pockets resembling those of natural enzymes. A few of the resulting de novo enzymes exhibit activity comparable to those that have been refined by in vitro evolution. The design approach can theoretically be used with any combination of catalytically capable amino acids. These discoveries clarify basic concepts of enzyme catalysis and open the door to addressing issues related to the de novo protein catalysts’ practicability in industrial processes.

Chemists use high-throughput screening as a vital method to find naturally occurring enzymes that exhibit the appropriate activity during chemical transformations. However, locating these enzymes calls for a lot of resources and screening power. Biocatalysts for diverse purposes have been developed through protein design; nevertheless, the significance of low initial catalytic rates has been overlooked. 

Directed evolution and high-throughput screening make up for this in the current paradigm. This method, however, is not appropriate for developing new, effective catalysts for chemical reactions that cannot be accessed by high-throughput screening. By addressing methodological flaws in functional design and enzymatic activity prediction, researchers can improve efficiency and expand the knowledge of the fundamentals of enzyme catalysis.

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[juituniversity]

Information Engineering and Information Technology are two distinct fields that have their differences. While both focus on the use of technology to better manage data and information, they each offer unique advantages in terms of implementation. Information Engineering focuses more on the development of software solutions while engineering in information technology is focused more on the management of those solutions. By understanding these distinctions, businesses can make thoughtful decisions when determining which field best fits their needs.

[davidkehr08]

Biotechnology Assignment Help

Biotechnology is a rapidly evolving field that manipulates living organisms using precise scientific methods, finding extensive applications in industries like cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and food production. It drives innovation and commercial development, offering diverse career paths. Graduates often find opportunities in pharmaceuticals, focusing on drug discovery and testing. They also contribute to food production, preservation, and waste management. Bio-energy presents environmental solutions, while genetics and stem cells play pivotal roles in medical and high-tech sectors. Bioinformatics and bioethics impact policy and nonprofit organizations. To excel, students seek Biotechnology Assignment Help services, as this multidisciplinary field demands a deep understanding of genetics, chemistry, and neuroscience, progressing to advanced topics such as bioinformatics and bioprocessing. Reliable assistance is available, ensuring high-quality, plagiarism-free assignments from experienced professionals within budget constraints. Access to samples, revisions, and research guidance enriches the learning experience.

[natsaffection]

Ohh an idea 💡 in my head and I know you are perfect to write this, basically reader is working at a company that is run by bad guys but doesn't know it, so natasha is sent on a mission to get close to her and gather Intel, so couple weeks pass and reader finds out in the most distraught way which causes her to end everything with Natasha but still have a good heart decides to give everything natasha needs to take down the company, (happy ending or sad ending either works) 💝

Showing everything. | N.R

Warnings: Just Angst?

Word count: 8,4k

A/n: I'm so grateful every time I finish a Ask that's been on my list for weeks. So thank you for your patience each time. 🫶🏼

You had always dreamed of finding a job where you could make a difference in the world, but you never thought it would come in the form of an elegant office in the heart of New York City. The building, a towering glass structure shimmering in the sunlight, housed one of the city's most prestigious companies. Kinetica Industries. They were known for their groundbreaking technology and humanitarian efforts, advancing medical equipment and energy supply that had revolutionized the industry. It was a dream job, almost impossible to turn down.

You stumbled upon the opportunity by chance. A late night scrolling through endless job listings led you to Kinetica's website. The company was looking for someone with your exact skills: data analysis and project management. The job description was vague but intriguing. Analyzing trends, managing large datasets, coordinating with various departments. It sounded challenging yet rewarding, the kind of opportunity you needed to prove yourself. The application process was quick, almost too quick. A few online assessments, a virtual interview with a charming man who headed your department, and within a week, you were offered the job. They said they were impressed by your resume, your background in bioinformatics, and your impeccable reputation. The salary was more than generous, with benefits that seemed almost too good to be true. But eager to start fresh and leave the stagnation of your previous job behind, you didn't question it further. You accepted immediately.

Your first day was a whirlwind of activity. The office itself was as impressive as the building's exterior. Elegant, modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the city. The air buzzed with innovation, with teams of people tirelessly working on the next big thing. You were given a tour, introduced to your colleagues. Bright, motivated people who all seemed to share your enthusiasm for the work. Your role was exactly as described, but with a small twist. You were part of a special project they called "The Initiative." It involved collecting and analyzing data from various sources to create predictive models that could be used for everything from disease prevention to energy distribution. It sounded noble, and you were thrilled to be part of something that could change the world.

But as you settled into your new role, you couldn't help but notice the layers of secrecy surrounding certain aspects of your work. Some files were restricted, accessible only with special clearance. Occasionally, your requests for specific datasets were met with vague answers or outright refusal. But whenever doubts arose, you reminded yourself that every company had its secrets, especially one as influential as Kinetica.

Meanwhile, in a dimly lit office in the underground levels of S.H.I.E.L.D. headquarters, Natasha Fury sat across from you, the tension in the air almost palpable. "Romanoff," Fury began, his single eye piercing through the twilight, "we have a problem. Kinetica Industries." Natasha leaned back in her chair, arms crossed. "The tech company? They've been on our radar for a while, haven't they?"

"They have." Fury confirmed. "But new intel suggests they're more than just a tech company. We believe they're a front for something far more dangerous. We suspect they're involved in illegal arms trading, possibly even human experimentation. But we need proof." Natasha nodded, understanding where this was going. "And that's where I come in."

"Exactly. We've identified someone on the inside, Y/N Y/L/N. She's new, only started about a week ago. As far as we can tell, she's clean. No criminal record, no ties to any organizations. She's the perfect target to infiltrate." Natasha leaned forward, studying the file Fury slid across the table. Your face stared back at her from the photo clipped to the top of the file, a bright smile, eyes full of hope. Natasha couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt, but she pushed it aside. This was a mission, and she had a job to do.

"What's the plan?" she asked, flipping through the file. "You'll go undercover as someone with a similar background, a data analyst, someone they might hire if the current employee doesn't work out. Your task is to gain her trust, find out what Y/n knows. If she's innocent, she might unknowingly be sitting on crucial information. If not.."

"I'll find out," Natasha finished, her voice cold and determined. Fury nodded, satisfied. "We need to act fast. Every day we wait is another day Kinetica could move their operations. I'm counting on you, Romanoff." Natasha stood up, tucking the file under her arm. "I won't let you down."

As she left Fury's office, her thoughts were already spinning with possibilities, strategies, and the cool detachment that came with every undercover mission. She knew this wouldn't be easy. You were innocent, or at least you seemed to be. But Natasha had learned the hard way that appearances could be deceiving. Her mission was clear: get close to you, gather the information, and expose Kinetica for what they really were. But as she prepared to step into your world, Natasha couldn't shake the feeling that this mission would become more complicated than she anticipated.

Your first weeks at Kinetica Industries were a whirlwind of new faces, complex datasets, and an overwhelming amount of information. You were slowly getting used to the office routine when you heard about the new hire. Natalie Rushman, as she was introduced, joined the team on a bright Monday morning. You first heard about her during the daily briefing. Your department head mentioned that Natalie was hired to assist with data analysis, given the increasing workload from "The Initiative."

"I want you to show her the ropes." Your boss said, his tone implying it was not a request. "She has a similar background to you, and I think you two will work well together." You nodded, trying to hide the concern you felt about being responsible for training someone so soon after starting yourself. You hadn't fully mastered your own tasks yet, and now you were supposed to mentor someone else? But you forced a smile and agreed, hoping that Natalie would be as easygoing as she seemed in her brief introduction.

It wasn't until later in the morning that you finally met her. You were in the office kitchen, struggling with the intricate espresso machine that seemed designed to torment anyone who wasn't a seasoned barista. You had managed to spill coffee grounds everywhere when you heard someone clear their throat behind you.

You turned around and saw Natalie standing there, a slight smile on her lips. Her red hair was tied back in a neat ponytail, and she wore a white blouse and tailored black pants that made her look effortlessly professional. "Need some help?" Natalie asked, her voice warm and slightly amused. You laughed, embarrassed to be caught in the middle of your coffee disaster. "I think this machine was designed by someone who hates caffeine addicts."

Natalie stepped forward, gently nudging you aside. "Mind if I give it a try? I've had my fair share of battles with these things."

"Be my guest." you replied gratefully, stepping back. Natalie moved with practiced ease, quickly coaxing the machine into cooperation and brewing two perfect cups of espresso. She handed you one, which you accepted with a wide grin. "You're a lifesaver." you said, taking a sip. The coffee was perfectm. Rich, smooth, and exactly what you needed to get through the rest of the day. "I'm Y/n, by the way. I'm supposed to show you around today."

"Natalie." she replied, her smile deepening. "And I appreciate the help. The first days are always a bit overwhelming."

"Don't I know it.." you said, rolling your eyes playfully. "I'm still trying to figure out where half the supplies are kept around here." Natalie laughed, a genuine but slightly guarded sound, as if she was still feeling out her new environment. "I'm sure we'll figure it out together. So, what exactly are we working on?" You began explaining the project to her, giving her an overview of "The Initiative" and what your roles would be. As you spoke, you noticed that Natalie was a good listener, nodding at the right moments and asking insightful questions. It was clear she knew what she was talking about, and you felt a little more at ease, knowing you weren't dealing with a complete novice.

"So," Natalie said as you walked back to the office with your coffees in hand, "what made you decide to work here?" You shrugged, trying to put your thoughts into words. "I guess I wanted to be part of something bigger, you know? Kinetica is doing some amazing things..or at least that's what they tell us. It's nice to think that the work we're doing here might actually make a difference."

Natalie nodded thoughtfully, as if considering her own reasons for being here. "I can understand that. It's nice to feel like what you're doing matters." You arrived at your desk, which was temporarily doubling as Natalie's workspace until hers was ready. You showed her how to log into the system, where to find the files she needed, and how to navigate the company's complex database. As you worked together, you noticed how quickly Natalie picked everything up. She seemed almost too proficient, as if she knew the system better than someone on their first day should. But you brushed the thought aside, some people were just quick learners, you thought.

The day passed smoothly, with the two of you working side by side and getting to know each other in small increments between tasks. Natalie was friendly but reserved, sharing just enough about herself to seem open without giving too much away. You found that you liked your new colleague, appreciating her calm demeanor and quick mind.

By the end of the day, you had made significant progress on your tasks, and you were starting to feel a sense of camaraderie with Natalie. As you prepared to leave, you turned to her with a smile. “Thanks for today, Natalie. You made my job a lot easier.” Natalie returned the smile, her green eyes sparkling in the fading daylight. “The feeling is mutual. I think we’re going to make a great team.” You nodded, feeling a warmth in your chest that you hadn’t expected. Maybe this new job wouldn’t be so overwhelming after all..

In the weeks that followed, the bond between you and Natalie deepened, evolving from a close friendship into something more intense, something charged. There was a tension between you that neither of you could ignore, a pull that grew stronger with every shared glance, every lingering touch. You had danced around your feelings for each other for a while, but the unspoken words were becoming harder to bear.

One evening, after another long day at the office, you found yourselves alone in the break room once again. The city lights cast a soft glow through the windows, the hum of the air conditioning the only sound breaking the silence. You sat closer than usual, your shoulders touching as you picked at the remnants of a shared dinner. Your heart raced, the proximity making it difficult to focus on anything other than the warmth of Natalie’s body next to yours.

“Natalie..” you began hesitantly, “I need to tell you something.” Natalie looked up from her food, her green eyes locking onto yours with an intensity that took your breath away. “What is it?”

You took a deep breath, gathering your courage. “I..I’ve been trying to understand these feelings I have for you.. I never thought I’d feel this way about someone I work with, but I can’t keep pretending it’s not there. I care about you, Natalie. More than just as a friend.” The words hung heavy in the air between you, filled with the weight of their honesty. You watched Natalie closely, searching her face for any sign of rejection or discomfort. But what you saw instead was a softening in her expression, a warmth that she hadn’t fully shown before.

“Y/n,” Natalie said softly, reaching out to take your hand, “I feel the same way. I’ve tried to keep my distance, to stay professional, but..I can’t help it. I love you.” Your heart leaped at her confession, your pulse quickening as the truth settled between you. “You.. you love me?”

Natalie nodded, her thumb gently stroking the back of your hand. “Yes, I do. And I’ve been so scared of what that means, but I can’t deny it any longer. I love you, Y/n.” The relief that washed over you was almost overwhelming, and without thinking, you leaned in and pressed your lips to Natalie’s in a kiss that was soft, tentative, and filled with all the emotions you had both been holding back.

Natalie responded immediately, her hand coming up to cup your cheek as she deepened the kiss, letting all her unspoken feelings flow into it. It was a moment of pure connection, where nothing else existed but the two of you and the love you shared. When you finally pulled away, both of you were breathless, your foreheads resting against each other as you tried to process what had just happened.

“I can’t believe this is real..” you whispered, your voice trembling with emotion. “It is,” Natalie murmured, her eyes shining with affection. “I’m here, and I’m not going anywhere.”

For a moment, everything felt perfect. But as the warmth of the moment began to fade, a sharp pang of guilt pierced Natasha’s heart. She had just confessed her love to you, but the truth was far more complicated than she could admit. She wasn’t just Natalie Rushman, a data analyst who had fallen for her colleague..she was Natasha Romanoff, a spy sent to gather information from the woman she had just professed her love to.

As you sat there, your hand still in hers, Natasha knew she was at a crossroads. She had sworn to get the information she needed, to complete the mission no matter what. But now, with the thought of betraying you, her stomach twisted with guilt. “Y/n,” Natasha began, her voice heavy with what she was about to say, “I want us to be completely honest with each other. Totally honest. I need to know..is there anything about our project, about Kinetica, that seems strange to you? Anything that doesn’t add up?”

You frowned slightly, confused by the sudden change in topic. “What do you mean?” Natasha hesitated, hating herself for what she had to do, but knowing she had no choice. “I’ve just..noticed a few things that don’t quite fit. Some files that are restricted, some data that doesn’t quite match up. I thought maybe you’d noticed it too.” Your brow furrowed as you thought back over the past few months. “Well, there have been a few things that seemed odd, but I just figured it was part of working at such a high-level company. Why do you ask?”

Natasha swallowed hard, forcing herself to keep up the pretense. “I’m just worried, that’s all. I want to make sure we’re not missing anything important.” You nodded slowly, still puzzled but trusting Natalie’s concern. “I’ll keep an eye out, and if I notice anything, I’ll let you know. But..can we not talk about work right now? I just want to enjoy this moment with you.”

Natasha’s heart clenched at your words, the guilt threatening to overwhelm her. She had just used your moment of vulnerability to fish for information, and the realization made her feel sick. But she forced herself to push the guilt aside, to focus on the mission, even as it tore her apart inside. “Of course.” Natasha said softly, pulling you closer and kissing you again, trying to lose herself in the warmth and love she felt for you.

Weeks passed, and the bond between you and Natalie grew even deeper. Your relationship had blossomed into something beautiful, a refuge in the midst of the high-pressure jobs at Kinetica Industries. You spent as much time together as possible..dinners, quiet nights with movies, and long walks through the city. For you, it felt like you had finally found someone who understood you, someone you could trust completely. But for Natasha, the lines between her mission and her feelings for you were becoming increasingly blurred.

The guilt Natasha felt was a constant companion, gnawing at her whenever she saw your trusting smile or felt the warmth of your hand in hers. Natasha knew she was deceiving you, but every time she considered telling you the truth, the weight of her duty as an agent held her back. She had a job to do, and despite her feelings, she couldn’t abandon it.

One evening, after a particularly long day at the office, you invited Natasha to your place. You were behind on some work and needed to finish a report for the next day, but you didn’t want to miss out on spending time with Natalie. Natasha agreed, glad for any excuse to spend more time with you.

Your apartment was cozy and inviting, filled with the little details Natasha had come to love. Bookshelves overflowing with novels, a small collection of plants by the window, and a few framed photos of you with your family. You settled together on the couch, you with your laptop and Natasha with a book she had picked from your shelf. “I’m sorry I have to work tonight..” you said, giving Natasha an apologetic smile. “I just need to finish this report, and then I’m all yours.”

“Don’t worry.” Natasha replied with a smile of her own. “I’m just happy to be here with you. Take your time.” As you focused on your work, Natasha found herself watching you more than reading the book in her hands. The way your brow furrowed slightly when you were deep in thought, the absent-minded way you tucked a strand of hair behind your ear. All of it made Natasha’s heart ache with affection and guilt. But as much as she wanted to lose herself in these feelings, Natasha couldn’t forget why she was there. This was an opportunity she couldn’t pass up. Your work might hold the key to the information S.H.I.E.L.D. needed, and Natasha had to take advantage of it, no matter how much it tore her up inside.

After about an hour, you stood up and stretched, yawning. “I need to make some tea. Want anything?”

Natasha nodded her head, giving you a reassuring smile. “This would be grate.” As you disappeared into the kitchen, Natasha’s heart pounded in her chest. This was her chance. She had to act quickly. She set the book aside and moved quietly to your laptop. The screen was still on, showing the report you were working on, but Natasha’s focus was on the folders and files scattered across the desktop. She opened one labeled “Project Data” her hands trembling slightly as she navigated through the documents.

Natasha scanned the files, her sharp eyes searching for anything that stood out or seemed significant. Most of the documents were routine. Xatasets, project reports, emails. But then she found something: a file titled “Confidential Research Notes.”

Her heart raced as she opened it and found a series of notes detailing experiments and datasets that she hadn’t seen before. It was more detailed than anything you had shown her at work, and as Natasha read through it, she realized it contained the kind of information S.H.I.E.L.D. had been looking for..details about Kinetica’s involvement in potentially illegal research, experiments that crossed ethical boundaries.

She heard the clink of a teacup in the kitchen, and panic surged through her. Quickly, Natasha copied the file onto a USB stick she had hidden in her bag. She had just closed the file when you returned, carrying twocups of tea. “Here you go.” you said with a smile, handing one of the cups to Natasha. “Thanks.” Natasha replied, taking the cup with slightly trembling hands and praying that you hadn’t noticed anything unusual.

You settled back down on the couch, taking a sip of your tea and letting out a contented sigh. “The report is almost done. After that, we can watch the movie you mentioned.” Natasha forced a smile, trying to push down the gnawing guilt and the tight knot in her stomach. “That sounds great.”

As you returned to your work, Natasha tried to relax, but the weight of what she had just done loomed over her. She had gathered the information she needed, but at the cost of betraying your trust. For the rest of the evening, Natasha was distant, her mind racing with thoughts of what would happen next.

You noticed the change in her demeanor and reached out to touch her arm, concern evident in your eyes. “Hey, is everything okay?” Natasha looked into your eyes, feeling her heart ache. “Yeah, I’m just..tired, I guess. It’s been a long day.”

You smiled gently and squeezed her arm. “I get it. We’ve both been working so hard lately. Let’s just relax tonight, okay? No more work, just us.” Natasha nodded, but her smile didn’t reach her eyes. “Just us.” she repeated, her voice hollow. As you both snuggled up on the couch to watch the movie, Natasha tried to focus on the moment, to lose herself in the warmth of your presence. But no matter how hard she tried, the guilt and the knowledge of what she had done weighed heavily on her.

The following days were filled with an unbearable tension for Natasha. She knew she had to pass the information to S.H.I.E.L.D., but she dreaded what would happen when the truth came out. The time she spent with you, the smiles, the laughter, all felt tainted by the lie she was living. Finally, the day came when Natasha couldn’t put it off any longer. She knew she had to deliver the USB drive to S.H.I.E.L.D. The mission needed to be completed, but the thought of what that would mean for your relationship was almost too much to bear.

That evening, as you sat together at your kitchen table, your laptop open in front of you as you worked on another report, Natasha made her decision. She had to do this, even though it meant risking everything with you. But before she could leave, something happened that changed everything.

You called Natasha over, a confused look on your face. “Nat, can you look at something for me? This report doesn’t make sense.” Natasha’s heart skipped a beat, but she kept her expression neutral. “Sure, what’s going on?” she asked, walking over to the table.

You pointed at the screen, your brow furrowed in confusion. “I just got this email from my boss, and he attached this report. It’s about a security breach at Kinetica. They’re trying to figure out who accessed some confidential files..” Natasha’s blood ran cold, but she kept her voice steady. “A security breach? What files are they talking about?”

You scrolled through the report, your frown deepening. “It doesn’t say exactly, but it has something to do with our project. They’ve narrowed down the list of suspects, but I don’t recognize most of the names..except for one.”

You paused, your eyes widening as you focused on a name in the list: Natasha Romanoff.

“Natasha Romanoff?” you whispered, confusion and disbelief clear in your voice. You looked up at Natasha, searching her face for answers. “Wait, is that you? Is this some kind of mistake?”

Natasha felt the walls closing in on her. There was no more hiding, no more pretending. The truth was out, and there was no going back. “Y/n,” she began, her voice trembling, “I need you to listen to me.” You took a step back, fear and suspicion creeping into your eyes. “What do you mean?” you asked, your voice shaking.

Natasha’s heart broke at the sight of the fear in your eyes. “I’m still the same person, Y/n. I’m still me. But..I haven’t been honest with you.” Your hands shook as you hugged yourself, desperately trying to understand what was happening. “Who are you? Have you been lying to me this whole time?”

Tears welled up in Natasha’s eyes as she took a hesitant step toward you, but you flinched and stepped back. “Please, let me explain..” Natasha pleaded, her voice breaking. “My real name is Natasha Romanoff. I’m an agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. I was sent here to gather information on Kinetica. But everything else..everything between us..it was real. My feelings for you, Y/n, are real.”

Your eyes darted around the room as if searching for something familiar, something to hold onto. But everything felt wrong. The woman you loved, the woman you trusted, was a stranger. “You used me?” you asked, your voice trembling with anger and fear. “You used me the whole time?”

“No!” Natasha said quickly, desperation creeping into her voice. “It started as a mission, yes, but I never meant to fall in love with you. I never wanted to hurt you. Please, Y/n, you have to believe me.” You shook your head, backing away until you hit the wall. “I don’t know what to believe anymore. I don’t even know who you are. Natasha Romanoff, S.H.I.E.L.D.… it sounds like something out of a Movie..”

Natasha’s heart shattered as she watched you crumble before her. She took a tentative step closer, her hands shaking. “I’m still the person you fell in love with, Y/n. I’m still the person who loves you more than anything. Please, let me explain everything.” You stared at Natasha, your heart breaking all over again. “You should have told me the truth from the beginning! But you didn’t. You lied to me, and now..now I don’t even know who you are..”

Natasha took another step forward, reaching out tentatively. “I’m so sorry, Y/n. I know I’ve hurt you, and I’ll never forgive myself for that. But I’m begging you, please give me a chance to make it right.” You looked down at Natasha’s outstretched hand, but the fear and betrayal in your heart were too overwhelming. You couldn’t bring yourself to take it. “I can’t..” you whispered, your voice breaking. “I can’t do this. I need you to leave.”

Natasha’s heart broke at your words, but she knew she had no right to ask for forgiveness, not now. “Y/n, I-”

“Just go!” you cried, your voice filled with agony. “Please, just go. I can’t look at you right now.” Natasha’s hands fell to her sides, her shoulders slumping as the weight of what she had done crashed down on her. She had lost you, and there was nothing she could do to fix it. But as much as it hurt, she knew she had to respect your wishes.

“I’m so sorry..” Natasha whispered, tears streaming down her face. “I love you, Y/n. I’ll always love you.” Without another word, Natasha turned and left your apartment, the door closing behind her with a finality that echoed through the empty space. You stood there, frozen, your heart shattered into a thousand pieces as the truth of Natasha’s betrayal washed over you. The apartment that once felt like a safe haven now felt cold and empty, the warmth of Natasha’s presence gone, replaced by a suffocating sense of loss. You slid down the wall, pulling your knees to your chest as your body shook with sobs. The woman you loved, the woman you trusted, was a lie, and you didn’t know if you could ever trust anyone again.

Hours passed, and eventually, your tears dried up, leaving you with a hollow feeling inside. But despite the pain, you couldn’t ignore the truth that Natasha had revealed. Kinetica was involved in something dangerous, something that needed to be stopped. And despite everything, you knew you couldn’t just walk away.

Slowly, you got to your feet, your resolve hardening. You would do what needed to be done, not for Natasha, but because it was the right thing to do. You walked over to your laptop and opened the files you had been working on. With a heavy heart, you gathered everything you knew about Kinetica’s activities, your hands shaking as you worked. The information you collected could help bring the company down, but it came at the cost of everything you believed in, everything you felt.

When you finished, you copied the files onto a USB stick and set it on the table. You stared at it for a long time, your thoughts filled with memories of the woman you thought you knew, the woman you loved. Finally, you took a deep breath and reached for your phone. You hesitated for a moment before dialing the number Natasha had given you, the one you were supposed to use only in an emergency.

Natasha answered on the first ring, her voice thick with emotion. “Y/n?”

“I have the information you need.” you said, your voice firm despite the storm of emotions raging inside you. “It’s on a USB stick. I’ll leave it at the café near my apartment tomorrow morning. You can pick it up there.”

“Y/n, please, can we talk-” Natasha began, but you cut her off.

“There’s nothing more to say.” you said quietly. "That's it, Natasha. After this, we're done. Don't contact me again."

A long silence followed on the other end of the line, and you could hear the pain in Natasha's voice when she finally spoke. "Thank you. I'm so sorry. For everything."

You swallowed the lump in your throat and tried to keep your emotions under control. "Goodbye, Natasha."

The mission was over. Kinetica Industries had been exposed, its leaders arrested, and the illegal activities shut down. Natasha had completed her assignment, but the victory felt hollow. As the dust settled, she could only think about you, how she had lost you and how desperate she was to make things right.

Days turned into weeks, and the absence of you in Natasha's life became unbearable. The empty silence in her apartment echoed the emptiness in her heart. She replayed the last conversation she had with you over and over in her mind, haunted by the pain in your voice, the cold finality of your words. Natasha knew she had no right to ask for forgiveness, but she couldn't live with the thought that you hated her, that the love you had shared was now just a memory tainted by lies. After much deliberation, Natasha decided she had to try one last time to explain herself and apologize in person. She knew it was a long shot..you had made it clear you didn't want to see her again but Natasha couldn't leave things the way they were. She had to try.

One evening, just as the sun was setting, Natasha made her way to your apartment. The familiar building loomed before her, but this time it felt different..colder, more intimidating. She hesitated at the entrance, her heart pounding in her chest. What if you refused to listen? What if you called the police before she even had a chance to say anything? But she knew she couldn't turn back now. She took a deep breath, entered the building, and walked to your door. She stood there for a long moment, gathering her thoughts before she finally raised her hand and knocked softly.

There was a long pause, and Natasha's heart sank as she imagined you ignoring her, refusing to even open the door. But then she heard footsteps approaching, and the door opened a crack, revealing your wary eyes. Your expression shifted from surprise to anger as soon as you saw Natasha. Your hand tightened around the doorknob, and you narrowed your eyes. "What are you doing here?" you asked, your voice cold and hard.

"Y/n, please, I just want to talk." Natasha said quickly, raising her hands in a gesture of surrender. "I know I don't deserve it, but I need to explain-" You cut her off, your voice sharp with anger. "Explain? There's nothing left to explain, Natasha. You lied to me, used me, and now you have the nerve to show up at my door?"

"Please.." Natasha pleaded, her voice breaking. "Give me five minutes." Your eyes flashed with a mix of anger, pain, and something else that Natasha couldn't quite place. You hesitated, your hand still gripping the doorknob as if you were weighing whether to slam the door in her face. "If you don't leave right now." you said, your voice trembling with barely suppressed emotion, "I'll call the police."

Natasha felt her heart sink, but she didn't move. She knew you were serious, but she also knew that if she walked away now, she would never have another chance to make things right. "Do it." Natasha said quietly, "Call them if you want. But please, hear me out first. I need to show you how sorry I am. I know I can't undo what I've done, but I can't live with myself if I don't at least try to apologize."

You stared at Natasha, your hand shaking as you gripped the doorknob. The pain in your eyes was unmistakable, and it broke Natasha's heart to see how much she had hurt you. For a long moment, neither of you spoke, the tension between you thick and suffocating. Finally, you let out a shaky breath and loosened your grip on the doorknob. "You have five minutes," you said, "But if you lie to me again, I swear I'll call the police."

Natasha nodded, relief washing over her even though she knew this was only a small victory. "Thank you." she whispered, stepping back as you opened the door just enough to let her in. You led Natasha into the living room, a space that had once felt warm and inviting but now felt cold and distant. You gestured for Natasha to sit on the sofa, but you remained standing, arms crossed over your chest as you waited for her to speak.

"Okay," Natasha began, her voice trembling, "I know I've hurt you in a way I can never fully apologize for. I deceived you and betrayed your trust. But I need you to know that every moment I spent with you, every touch, every word I said to you, was real. My feelings for you are real." Your eyes flashed with anger, and you shook your head. "How am I supposed to believe that? You're a trained spy. Lying is part of your job."

"I know.." Natasha said, her voice breaking slightly. "And that's why I'm not asking for your forgiveness. I know I don't deserve it. But I couldn't leave things the way they were. I couldn't let you believe that everything between us was just part of the mission. It wasn't. You became the most important person in my life, and I was so scared of losing you."

"Then why didn't you tell me the truth?" you asked, your voice trembling with pent-up emotion. "Why did you wait until I had to find out this way?" Natasha swallowed hard, tears welling up in her eyes. "Because I was a coward. I didn't want to lose you, and I thought that if I could just finish the mission, maybe..just maybe we could have a life together afterward. But I was wrong. I should have been honest with you from the start."

You shook your head, tears filling your eyes as well. "You should have. But you didn't. And now I don't know if I can ever trust you again." A tear rolled down Natasha's cheek, but she made no move to wipe it away. "I understand." she said softly. "I know I've broken your trust, and I have to live with that. I just wanted you to know that I love you, Y/n. I will always love you. And if you never want to see me again, I'll respect that. But please don't think that I didn't care about you, because I do."

You looked away, blinking back tears. "You should go, Natasha. There's nothing more to say." Natasha nodded, her heart breaking all over again. "I'm sorry." she whispered, her voice barely audible. "For everything."

Without another word, Natasha turned and walked to the door, her steps heavy with the weight of the finality of the situation. She paused in the doorway, casting one last look at you, hoping to find something..anything that might suggest there was still a chance for you both. But your expression remained cold and distant, your eyes avoiding hers. With a heavy heart, Natasha opened the door and stepped out into the hallway. The door clicked shut behind her with a soft thud that echoed in the silence that followed. Natasha stood there for a moment, letting the reality of what had just happened sink in. She had tried, but it was over. You were right. There was nothing more to say.

Unknown to you, the case of Kinetica’s downfall was far from over. The company’s leaders were desperately trying to cover their tracks, attempting to salvage what they could. But amid the chaos, they discovered something alarming: You, one of their employees, had been the one to pass on the damning information that had led to their downfall. And now they wanted revenge.

You were alone in your apartment one evening, your thoughts drifting as you tried to focus on the book you were reading. The quiet was soothing, a respite from the whirlwind of emotions you had been grappling with. But that peace was abruptly shattered by a sudden, insistent knocking at your door. Frowning, you set the book aside and walked to the door, peering through the peephole. Your heart skipped a beat when you saw two men standing outside, men you didn’t recognize, but something about their presence immediately set off alarm bells in your head.

“Who is it?” you called out, trying to keep your voice steady despite the unease rising within you. “Delivery.” one of the men said, but there was no package in sight, and his tone was too cold, too rehearsed.

Your instincts kicked in, and you stepped away from the door, your heart racing. These weren’t delivery men..they were here for something else, something far more sinister. Panic gripped you as you realized that Kinetica must have found out what you had done. Just as you were about to reach for your phone, the door burst open with a loud crash, the two men forcing their way in. You screamed and stumbled back, your thoughts racing with fear and desperation. But before they could reach you, another figure appeared in the doorway, moving with deadly precision. Natasha.

She had been keeping an eye on your apartment since your last conversation, knowing that Kinetica might try something. When she saw the men approaching your building, she knew immediately what their target was and she wasn’t going to let them harm you. “Get away from her.” Natasha snarled, her voice cold and dangerous.

The men turned to face Natasha, but they barely had time to react before she was on them. In a blur of motion, she disarmed the first man, sending his weapon skittering across the floor. The second man lunged at her, but she easily dodged and delivered a powerful kick to his stomach, sending him crashing into the wall. You watched in stunned silence as Natasha took down the men with brutal efficiency, her movements fluid and controlled. The fight was over in seconds, the two men lying unconscious on the floor as Natasha stood over them, breathing heavily.

For a moment, the apartment was eerily silent, the only sound the ragged breaths of the two women. Your heart pounded in your chest, your mind struggling to process what had just happened. Natasha turned to you, her expression a mixture of concern and relief. “Are you okay?” she asked, her voice softer now, laced with the fear she had tried to suppress.

You nodded slowly, your eyes wide as you stared at Natasha. “I..I think so..” you stammered, still trying to grasp everything. “What..what are you doing here?”

“I couldn’t leave you unprotected.” Natasha said, stepping closer, her eyes full of guilt and love. “I knew Kinetica might come after you. I couldn’t let that happen.” Your gaze flickered to the unconscious men on the floor, then back to Natasha. “You..you saved me.”

Natasha nodded, her heart aching at the vulnerability in your voice. “I will always protect you. No matter what’s happened between us, I’ll always be here for you.” Tears welled up in your eyes as you looked at Natasha, the woman who had lied to you, who had betrayed you, but who had also just saved your life. The fear and anger you had been holding onto began to waver, replaced by a deep, conflicting emotion you couldn’t fully understand. “Why?” you whispered, your voice trembling. “Why are you doing this?”

“Because I love you.” Natasha said, her voice heavy with emotion. “I know I’ve hurt you, and I know you may never forgive me, but I had to make sure you were safe. You mean everything to me, Y/n.”

Your heart broke at the sincerity in Natasha’s voice. Despite everything, despite the lies and betrayal, Natasha’s love for you was real. And in that moment, you realized that your own feelings were just as complicated. You were angry, you were hurt, but you still loved her..more than you wanted to admit.

The two of you stood in silence, the weight of your emotions heavy in the air. Your mind raced with conflicting thoughts, torn between the betrayal you felt and the undeniable connection that still existed between you. Finally, you took a shaky breath. “I don’t know if I can forgive you, Natasha..” you said quietly. “But I can’t ignore what you just did for me. You saved my life. And..and I still care about you. I don’t know what that means, but I need time to figure it out.”

Natasha nodded, tears glistening in her eyes as she looked at you. “Take all the time you need.” she whispered. “I’ll be here, no matter what you decide.” You nodded hesitantly, the storm of emotions inside you beginning to calm. “Thank you.” you said softly, your voice barely audible.

Natasha stepped back, giving you the space you needed. “I’ll take care of this.” she said, gesturing to the unconscious men on the floor. “And then I’ll go, if that’s what you want.” You looked at Natasha, your heart heavy with everything that had happened between you. “I don’t know what I want..” you admitted, your voice trembling. “But I think..I think I need to be alone right now.”

Natasha nodded, her eyes reflecting the understanding she felt, even though the pain was clear. “I understand.” she said quietly. “Just know that if you ever need anything, anything at all, I’m here.”

You didn’t respond, but the look in your eyes said enough. You stood there, watching as Natasha efficiently secured the two men, ensuring they wouldn’t pose any further threat. She worked in silence, the weight of the situation pressing down on both of you. When Natasha was finished, she stood by the door, hesitating for a moment as if searching for the right words, but then deciding against saying anything more. With one last, sorrowful glance in your direction, she turned and left your apartment, the door closing softly behind her.

You stood frozen in place, your mind reeling from everything that had just happened. The apartment, which had been filled with tension and violence just moments ago, now felt eerily quiet. Slowly, you sank onto the couch, your body trembling as the reality of the situation settled over you.

You were filled with so many conflicting emotions that it was hard to sort through them all. Anger, fear, relief, affection..they all swirled within you, and you didn’t know how to make sense of them. You had asked Natasha to leave because you weren’t sure of anything anymore. And though it felt like the right thing to do, now that she was gone, you felt a cold emptiness spreading through your chest. A part of you wanted to call her back, wanted her to stay so you could work through these chaotic feelings together. But another part of you knew that you needed time to be alone, to sort through everything that had happened between the two of you.

The night passed in a blur of thoughts and emotions, with sleep coming only in brief, restless intervals. When morning finally came, you felt just as exhausted as you had the night before. But with the new day came a certain clarity. You knew you couldn’t stay in this limbo forever. Natasha had told you that she would always be there for you, and you believed her. But the question was whether you could let her back into your life, whether you could ever trust her again.

As the day dragged on, you tried to focus on mundane tasks, but thoughts of Natasha kept intruding. Finally, after hours of agonizing, you decided you needed more information to figure out a path forward. If there was any chance of peace or understanding between you, you needed to know the whole truth. The next day, you called Natasha. She answered immediately, and you could hear the mix of hope and concern in her voice. “Y/n?”

“I want to know everything.” you said, your voice firm even as your heart raced. “I can’t move on without understanding everything. No more secrets, no more lies. If there’s any chance for us to find peace, you need to show me everything.”

There was a brief silence on the other end of the line before Natasha spoke, her voice filled with relief and caution. “I understand. I’ll take you to S.H.I.E.L.D. You’ll have access to everything, my reports, the mission files. Whatever you need to know.”

You nodded, even though she couldn’t see it. “Okay. When can we go?”

“Right now.” Natasha said without hesitation. “I’ll come pick you up.”

True to her word, Natasha arrived at your apartment shortly after. The drive to the S.H.I.E.L.D. building was silent, the tension between you both palpable. Natasha stole worried glances at you from time to time, but you kept your gaze fixed out the window, lost in your thoughts. When you arrived at the unassuming building that housed S.H.I.E.L.D.’s operations, Natasha guided you through a series of security checks, her presence and clearance making the process smooth. You followed her, your heart pounding with a mix of fear and curiosity. This was a world you never imagined you would be a part of.

Finally, you arrived in a large conference room. Natasha gestured for you to take a seat at the table while she went to a console on the wall and entered a series of commands. The large screen in the room flickered to life, displaying a series of files and documents. “This is everything.” Natasha said quietly, turning to face you. “My mission files, the reports I sent, the details of Kinetica’s operations. You have full access.”

You stared at the screen, your heart racing. “Why are you doing this? Why are you showing me all of this?”

“Because I owe you the truth.” Natasha replied, her voice steady but laced with emotion. “And because I want you to know that I’m not hiding anything from you anymore. I know I broke your trust, but I want to do whatever it takes to rebuild it. Even if that means showing you everything.”

The next few hours were spent going through everything, the initial mission briefing, how Natasha was assigned to get close to you to gather information on Kinetica, and how she struggled with her growing feelings for you. She explained how she tried to keep you out of harm's way even as she fulfilled her mission, and how every moment you shared, despite the circumstances, had been genuine.

You listened intently, absorbing every word, every detail. There were moments when your anger flared up again, moments when you wanted to shout at Natasha for the betrayal, for the pain she had caused. But there were also moments of understanding, moments when you saw the inner conflict Natasha had gone through, torn between her duty and her growing love for you.

When Natasha finished, she looked at you, her heart pounding in her chest. “I know this doesn’t undo the lies, but I wanted you to see that I truly cared about you. I never wanted to hurt you, Y/n.” You remained silent for a long time, processing everything you had learned. You felt raw, exposed, but also strangely relieved. This was what you had needed. the full truth, with nothing held back.

Finally, you looked at Natasha, your expression unreadable. “You were honest with me today, Natasha, and I can feel that. For the first time, I feel like I’m really seeing you..with all your strengths and flaws, with all your mistakes.” Natasha nodded, her voice soft as she responded, “That’s all I wanted. To be honest with you, even if it costs me everything.”

You sighed, rubbing your temples as you tried to organize your thoughts. “I don’t know where we go from here, Natasha. I don’t know if I can ever fully trust you again. But..I see that you’re trying. And that means something.” Natasha felt a small spark of hope ignite in her chest, but she didn’t dare let it grow too large. “Thank you, Y/n. That’s more than I deserve.”

You looked at Natasha, your eyes filled with a mix of sadness and something that resembled hope. "Maybe it’s a start. I don’t know what the future holds for us, but at least now I know the truth. And that’s more than I had before.”

Natasha nodded, her heart heavy, but she was grateful. “Whatever happens, I’m here. If you need space, I’ll give you that. If you want to talk, I’ll listen. I won’t go away.” You managed a small, tired smile. “I guess we’ll just have to see where this takes us.”

You both left the S.H.I.E.L.D. headquarters together, the tension between you eased but the future still uncertain. As you stepped out into the bright afternoon sun, Natasha glanced at you, and for the first time in weeks, she felt a cautious spark of hope. You caught her glance and sighed. “It’s going to take time, Natasha. I don’t know if things can ever be the way they were, but.. we can find something new. Something honest.”

Natasha nodded, her heart swelling with emotion. “That’s what I’d like.” As you walked side by side, the past still loomed over you, but for the first time, there was a path forward..a path that might lead to healing, to forgiveness, and maybe even to a future where you could rebuild what had been broken. The road ahead would be difficult, full of challenges and doubts, but you had taken the first step together. And for now, that was enough.

[beemovieerotica]

hello mr beemovieerotica sir, i want to work in roughly the same industry as you do later (all I know is that you are a [micro?]biologist who works in a lab) and I wanted to ask, what can I do to make me more employable? lol but like with desperation. I do live in Europe, but thanks to my adhd and my general dumbassery I am dragging a 3 year degree into the way too long length, and I wanted to ask if you maybe know something that could make me look cool and hot and employable to people who want to hire someone less incapable of doing uni lol. I have been doing tutoring during labs for one of my professor so I have like a tinnyyy bit of extra experience to show but honestly what I mostly do there is watch over the lower semesters and make sure they don't spray the clean benches with CHO cells as they work with cells and electronic pipettes for the first time

tbh what labs are looking for these days even more so than the practical hands-on experience at the bench, is knowledge of bioinformatics pipelines. that's what helped me cinch the job I'm currently in. everyone is trying to do -omics in their work (transcriptomics, metagenomics, lipidomics, etc etc) and the great thing about this is you don't even have to be in a lab to start learning it.

I'm going to recommend some online tutorials to check out BUT the thing to keep in mind is that the field is moving so quickly that things can get outdated literally within a year, and people move onto the next big thing. so the main thing is that you get comfortable coding more than anything and then adapt that down the road, rather than being like "this is the code/package/pipeline that I'm saving forever and will use on a future project someone will give to me."

I used QIIME and DADA2, and to my knowledge those are all still being used quite a bit by people doing microbiome / 16S community analyses. if you're not familiar with coding in R yet, then start there! these tutorials come with downloadable sample datasets so you can play around with making graphs and getting used to everything there.

I know I'm recommending stuff for one particular subset of all microbiology work that could be done, but I feel like everyone is obsessed with the microbiome these days and it's a good place to start. if you've already done that and want to try more tutorials/something specific to like RNA sequencing then let me know!

[megumi-fm]

Hi Meg, I was wondering if I could get your insight on something... I'm interested in bioinformatics as a career but am not sure whether I should pursue just a Master's or try for a PhD. How did you decide how far you want to go with your education? I noticed you mentioned you hope to do a PhD someday? Thank you so much!

hey anon! okay, so in this answer I'ma focus on two things:

my thought process behind finalizing on a PhD

my approach to furthering education

I. Why PhD?

1. I love my subjects. I love the interdisciplinary nature of computational biology and it's sister subjects and I can see myself in academia- constantly learning and researching and exploring. 2. Even on the off chance that if I don't pursue a career in academia, I think I need a PhD anyway? Most high level positions in the industry for life-sciences requires a level of expertise that only comes with a doctorate, and I think my career opportunities (+ growth) will be rather limited without it.

Considering these two points, a PhD would be most suitable for me.

———————

Now, choosing the right type of graduate program can always be challenging because there are so many ways to go about it, and I am a very indecisive person so this was especially difficult for me. Here is my approach

II. Factors I considered before taking my next steps

My Primary Short-Term Goal(s)

I opted for a B.Tech in Biotechnology after 12th grade, and it is through the course of this degree that I realized my interest in computational biology and bioinformatics. My undergrad focused on too many topics and often emphasized wet lab over dry lab, so although I'm graduating with a specialization in Medicinal and Computational Biology, I don't know nearly enough regarding the computational aspects Thus, my short-term goal is to expand my theoretical understanding of the important aspects of bioinformatics & computational biology.

2. Course Options that Work

Now, I know that I want to continue my education, I've got two options- Masters and PhD. When I considered my immediate goal against these two options, I realized four things: a. I'm not equipped with the required dry lab skills to dive headfirst into research. b. I don't know enough bioinformatics to commit to anything long term right now c. I'm looking for a course that feels like an extension of my undergrad d. I want to keep my options open and consider all career opportunities Given these three options (+ course-related expenses + my skill level), it made most sense for me to choose a MSc at the moment rather than a PhD.

3. How the Course Ties in to My Long Term Goals

As I mentioned, my long term goal is to do a PhD. However, my upcoming graduate course is actually an MSc by Coursework degree, which- unlike a Thesis program, focuses on skill development (especially industry related) rather than research. In fact, most Thesis Masters can be converted to a PhD, but my program does not have that option. At first glance, this course might seem like it's going against my long term goal but consider: - Industry related or not, I need to develop computational skills before I can pursue research - After this course I might prefer to gain work experience for a couple years before opting for a PhD. - My preferred uni(s) for PhD are different from my preferred uni for Masters. [^To give an example on the last point, for masters i considered countries/unis known for their quality of education + closer to my home country (this will be my first time living abroad alone) but for my PhD, I'm looking at countries/unis that are pioneers in research for my subjects of interest (even if they are a lot farther away from home)] So essentially, I'm relying on this course to give me the skills and knowledge I need for a PhD in the future, while also giving me a buffer to understand and align my future goals and plans. Jumping from this to a PhD would be a lot harder than from a Thesis Masters, but that's a risk I'm willing to take.

So yeah, this was the way I went about choosing both my short term and long term academic goals. I hope this provides a good starting point for you! Don't stress out too much about it though; the truth is that there is no right or wrong choice, whatever decision you make will warp around your intentions and work for you the way you want it to. Best of luck for your future endeavors!!! I'm sure it'll all work out <3

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

How Can AI Help Discover ‘New’ Drugs Against COVID-19 In Brazil?

Brazilian researchers have topped a bioinformatics competition looking to find already-approved drugs that could function as treatments for Covid-19.

The need for new treatments has not waned: the virus was still the 10th highest cause of death in the US in 2023 according to figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Karina dos Santos Machado, an associate professor at Universidade Federal do Rio Grande in Brazil, led the team that topped a competition help by Canadian nonprofit biotech organization Conscience finding the most molecules that may lead to a new treatment effective against all coronaviruses.

Machado explains that drug discovery can be expensive and long , so re-purposing existing medicines for new uses can streamline this process.

"We tested in the computer only already approved molecules, such as those approved by regulatory agencies as the FDA," she says, "In drug re-purposing, algorithm-driven drug discovery is highly promising, especially in situations with limited resources for testing or where there is a gap between the academia and the pharmaceutical industry as happens in Brazil," she says.

Continue reading.

[h0wlcastle]

Still not exactly sure what I'm going to do after getting my associate's, like it's gonna be a science degree in liberal arts & sciences so I could go in a lot of different directions

I figure if I plan this out correctly and stick to it, I'll be somewhere between 34-38 when I'm done with school and ready to start an actual career. Depending on if I'm okay with just a bachelor's degree or if I want a masters or PhD. Maybe even 40+ if it takes longer than expected (I hope not)

Worst case scenario I drop out with no degree, but I am hellbent on not doing that. Second to worst case scenario, I stop after getting the A.S. and honestly who even knows if that would help my situation

Right now I'm leaning toward medical lab tech because they seem to make acceptable wages, and I have more confidence that it's not going to be impossible to find a job. Lab work also seems ideal for me. For autism reasons

Pharmacology is something else I'm interested in but I'm not crazy about the idea of working in that industry, and I especially don't want to pursue a pharmD and become a pharmacist bc I saw first hand how stressful that is. not to mention competitive. if that's how it was 10 yrs ago I have no doubt it's only gotten worse since then

Most ambitious goal would be to do some kind of PhD program in genetics and bioinformatics. But I might not even be interested by the time I get to that point

It's literally just all up in the air and I'm trying to look at it from an optimistic perspective, like I have plenty of freedom to change my plans, nothing is written in stone so I don't have to feel locked in to any particular career or area of study. But ngl. I wish I could just know exactly what I'm doing and just do it as fast as possible

[inkofamethyst]

July 19, 2024

Restarted the bioinformatics course and ughhhhhhhhhh. The command line is hard. Vim sucks. (read: I am largely unfamiliar with both the command line and vim.) Tbh I might just skip the homeworks because I don't think I'm able to find answer keys for them, meaning I can't check my work. So it goes with a free, youtube-based "class". I might just stick with the theory lessons for now and work with my postdoc in August on application. What I really want is to get a new laptop. Apparently black friday is the best for deals, but I'll see if I can manage to get one before school starts.

Otherwise making decent progress in lab. Doing a lot of histology (sectioning, staining, microscopy) which is going well enough.

I don't think I want to continue with academia after getting my phd. For many reasons. One main one is my mental health. I decided not to pursue theatre professionally because I knew that the requirement to always be a superlative would drain me and because of the lack of job security. Both of these are prominent components of an academic's professional lifestyle. While I know my PI manages a relatively healthy work-life balance and even seems to have a vibrant home life, I fear he may be the exception.

This is fun. Doing my phd at one of the world's top institutions is fulfilling! I am receiving scientific training at a high level. I am interfacing with some of the smartest people I've ever met all the time. I get to dedicate years toward the study of a passion project. I'm even building my financial literacy and managing to put money away. So I don't think it will be a waste.

And it's not like I could never return to academia. A previous mentor of mine has managed it. I could even teach on the side if I got the itch. But the publish-or-perish, soft money insecurity is not for me, I don't think. Weathering attacks on academic freedom and the tenure process is not for me. I think I want something more boring. I think I want a job that is just a job. Maybe even something that actually helps people.

I think my parents are now kind of hoping I'd go all the way, though. I know they'll support me regardless, but every time I've expressed doubts, my mom has told me to stay on the ride for as long as it will have me. Which I agree with to some extent. But I think setting goals and revising them is an important part of life. And it seems I may be revising the ones I set when I applied.

Noticeably cooler as of yesterday. I was so cool last night I was even able to turn off my box fan for the night. Thankful for that.

I'm also thankful for the luck involved in getting into the only program I applied to with more straightforward industrial applications.

[edit: for clarification, i most certainly am not interested in consulting. however. while i reserve the right to look for consulting jobs in the future to get that bag should i deem it necessary, i also believe that others have the right to ridicule me for that decision.]

[industrynewsupdates]

Bioinformatics Market: A Deep Dive into Predictive Modeling Applications

The global bioinformatics market was valued at USD 10.1 billion in 2022 and is projected to experience substantial growth, with an anticipated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.7% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is primarily driven by increasing demand for novel drug research and development (R&D) and the support of both private and public funding initiatives aimed at advancing R&D activities. Additionally, the emergence of user-friendly and accessible bioinformatics software, such as RasMol, AUTODOCK, BALL, and Bioclipse, is contributing to the market's expansion. These tools are widely utilized for the precise and effective analysis of biomarker discovery programs, which are essential for toxicity detection in the early stages of drug development.

Bioinformatics software and tools serve as integrated solutions that provide sophisticated algorithms and statistical methodologies for data analysis. They facilitate the integration of data management and analysis for a variety of applications, including next-generation sequencing, genomic and proteomic structuring, modeling, and three-dimensional drug design. The rising number of R&D initiatives in the proteomics and genomics sectors, along with other related '-omics' fields, is expected to bolster market growth by addressing increasing demands for data storage and analysis.

According to a study published by Stanford Medicine in January 2022, research conducted by Stanford scientists demonstrated that a DNA sequencing technique could sequence a human genome in approximately eight hours. Such technological advancements are likely to enhance the demand for genomics and, consequently, the bioinformatics sector. Applications in bioinformatics are capable of storing vast amounts of genomic and proteomic data, which supports research activities across various fields, including aging, carcinogenesis, and preventive therapies for genetic diseases. This capability is projected to significantly contribute to the industry's growth throughout the forecast period.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Bioinformatics Market

Application Insights

In 2022, the genomics application segment accounted for a considerable share of the revenue in the bioinformatics market. The rising demand for pharmacogenomics in drug development, alongside advancements in technology aimed at managing extensive genomic data sets, are key factors driving this significant market share. The market is categorized into several application segments, including genomics, molecular phylogenetics, metabolomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, cheminformatics, drug designing, and others.

The cheminformatics segment is anticipated to expand notably during the forecast period, primarily driven by the increasing demand for biomarker discovery and development. Cost reductions in the drug development process, shortened timelines for introducing new drugs to market, and enhanced success rates in drug discovery attributed to cheminformatics and drug design are expected to further fuel the growth of this segment.

By integrating bioinformatics with cheminformatics and drug design, researchers can quickly analyze and interpret large volumes of chemical and biological data. This integration leads to more targeted and effective drug development efforts. For example, in June 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) approved 26 new molecular entities (NMEs), which will further stimulate growth in research and development activities.

The field of proteomics has also seen significant R&D investments in recent years, and bioinformatics plays a crucial role in analyzing and managing the resulting data. This integration simplifies the handling of heterogeneous and large datasets, allows for the introduction of innovative algorithms, and enhances the knowledge discovery process. Overall, the bioinformatics market is poised for substantial growth, driven by technological advancements, increased funding, and an expanding array of applications across various scientific fields.

Order a free sample PDF of the Bioinformatics Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

[juituniversity]

When choosing the right stream or field after Btech, it is important to evaluate your interests and passions, career goals, job market prospects, salary potential, and lifestyle preferences. Taking into consideration all of these factors will help you make an informed decision about which path to take in order to maximize your success. With a B.Tech degree under your belt, you can pursue any number of exciting and fulfilling careers! b. tech colleges in himachal pradesh.

[cbirt]

Bioinformatics Approaches used in Single-cell Technologies: Recent Progress and Future Directions in Applied Research

Researchers from China examined the experimental and bioinformatics approaches used in single-cell research as well as their applications in a variety of industries, thereby predicting future developments in single-cell technology.

A growing number of single-cell technologies have been introduced in past years. Large-scale initiatives like the Human Cell Atlas, Mouse Cell Atlas, Mouse RNA Atlas, Mouse ATAC Atlas, and Plant Cell Atlas have fabricated an enormous quantity of single-cell omics data. Numerous bioinformatics techniques for quality standards, cluster analysis, cell-type categorization, evolutionary hypothesis, cell-cell transition, cell-cell interaction, and spatial analysis have been created based on this single-cell big data. The molecular environment at the single-cell level can be uncovered using cutting-edge experimental single-cell technologies and large data analysis techniques based on artificial intelligence.

Continue Reading

[roseliejack123]

Unveiling Java's Multifaceted Utility: A Deep Dive into Its Applications

In software development, Java stands out as a versatile and ubiquitous programming language with many applications across diverse industries. From empowering enterprise-grade solutions to driving innovation in mobile app development and big data analytics, Java's flexibility and robustness have solidified its status as a cornerstone of modern technology.

Let's embark on a journey to explore the multifaceted utility of Java and its impact across various domains.

Powering Enterprise Solutions

Java is the backbone for developing robust and scalable enterprise applications, facilitating critical operations such as CRM, ERP, and HRM systems. Its resilience and platform independence make it a preferred choice for organizations seeking to build mission-critical applications capable of seamlessly handling extensive data and transactions.

Shaping the Web Development Landscape

Java is pivotal in web development, enabling dynamic and interactive web applications. With frameworks like Spring and Hibernate, developers can streamline the development process and build feature-rich, scalable web solutions. Java's compatibility with diverse web servers and databases further enhances its appeal in web development.

Driving Innovation in Mobile App Development

As the foundation for Android app development, Java remains a dominant force in the mobile app ecosystem. Supported by Android Studio, developers leverage Java's capabilities to craft high-performance and user-friendly mobile applications for a global audience, contributing to the ever-evolving landscape of mobile technology.

Enabling Robust Desktop Solutions

Java's cross-platform compatibility and extensive library support make it an ideal choice for developing desktop applications. With frameworks like Java Swing and JavaFX, developers can create intuitive graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for desktop software, ranging from simple utilities to complex enterprise-grade solutions.

Revolutionizing Big Data Analytics

In big data analytics, Java is a cornerstone for various frameworks and tools to process and analyze massive datasets. Platforms like Apache Hadoop, Apache Spark, and Apache Flink leverage Java's capabilities to unlock valuable insights from vast amounts of data, empowering organizations to make data-driven decisions.

Fostering Innovation in Scientific Research

Java's versatility extends to scientific computing and research, where it is utilized to develop simulations, modeling tools, and data analysis software. Its performance and extensive library support make it an invaluable asset in bioinformatics, physics, and engineering, driving innovation and advancements in scientific research.

Empowering Embedded Systems

With its lightweight runtime environment, Java Virtual Machine (JVM), Java finds applications in embedded systems development. From IoT devices to industrial automation systems, Java's flexibility and reliability make it a preferred choice for building embedded solutions that require seamless performance across diverse hardware platforms.

In summary, Java's multifaceted utility and robustness make it an indispensable tool in the arsenal of modern software developers. Whether powering enterprise solutions, driving innovation in mobile app development, or revolutionizing big data analytics, Java continues to shape the technological landscape and drive advancements across various industries. As a versatile and enduring programming language, Java remains at the forefront of innovation, paving the way for a future powered by cutting-edge software solutions.

[gofunkee]

Crowdsourcing: not a new concept

what is crowdsourcing?

By using the Internet, social media, and smartphone apps, a huge number of individuals can contribute their work, information, or opinions through a process known as crowdsourcing.

While some crowdsourcing participants carry out menial jobs willingly, others work as paid freelancers. For instance, in order to give app users access to up-to-date, real-time information, traffic applications such as Waze incentivize drivers to self-report accidents and other traffic occurrences. (Hargrave, 2022) Crowdsourcing is a collaborative approach that involves sourcing information, ideas, or services from a wide and diverse group of individuals, known as the "crowd." This decentralized method relies on the collective intelligence and varied expertise of contributors, often facilitated through online platforms. Crowdsourcing is characterized by an open call for participation, inviting individuals to provide solutions, ideas, or content to address specific challenges or tasks.

Crowdsourcing in crisis

Amid the global, ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, among the tireless work of health care workers, policy makers, and government officials across various nations, there is another player with “skin in the game” if you will—crowdsourcing projects. Crowdsourcing is a model whereby individuals or organizations obtain goods and services, including ideas, from a large, relatively open community of digital media, Internet users, and an entire array of diverse stakeholders sharing a common interest from a range of perspectives and experiences.1 Although crowdsourcing originated long before the advent of digital age, in the current era of social media and other digital outlets, crowdsourcing has become a fairly commonplace solution. (Desai, 2020) Crowdsourcing in health and medical mostly started in the bioinformatics and technology fields about 2010. Its broad usefulness in disaster crisis management has, however, mostly gone unutilized. We address the ongoing and present uses of crowdsourcing in the COVID-19 era from this point of view. The COVID-19 pandemic, which has infected > 5 million people worldwide and caused > 330,000 deaths at the time of this writing, is no less than a disaster crisis, albeit biological. A disaster life cycle consists of the steps taken in planning for and responding to a particular disaster (Fig 1). This disaster cycle is used throughout the emergency management community, from the local to the national and international levels. We saw similar disaster mitigation (social distancing), preparedness (quarantine restrictions), response (masking), and recovery efforts during the 1918-1920 seasonal H1N1 flu pandemic. (Kuderer, 2020)

Community for creatives

Crowdsourcing funding for projects, businesses, and causes is expected to grow to be a $300 billion industry in the near future, according to estimations made by the crowdfunding trends blog Fundly. In 2017, Stanford University student Nicholas Benavides, the creator of the Blue Ocean Entrepreneurship Competition for Students, conducted an analysis of over 2,000 Kickstarter project data to identify the elements of a successful crowdfunding campaign. Benavides surveying the terms used in a campaign's title and blurb using the Kaggle Kickstarter dataset developed a model that could predict a campaign's success with 75% accuracy. (Sickler, 2020) Among his major findings was that the most common words–game, new, design, world–appeared equally in both funded and unfunded campaigns. The major point of differentiation was not in word choice but between those categories inherently more social in nature, such as Comics, Dance, Music, Theater and Design, and solo practices like Craft and Journalism. Social categories were simply a more natural fit for the success criteria of crowdfunding.

Role of crowdsourcing in Web3

Crowdsourcing in Web3 refers to the decentralised process of obtaining goods or services from a large, undefined group of people via the internet, rather than from traditional employees or suppliers. The role of crowdsourcing in Web3 is to empower individuals and communities to collaborate and contribute their skills, knowledge, and resources to create and maintain decentralised applications and services that are more equitable, transparent, and secure. This can lead to increased innovation, collaboration, and democratisation in the development and deployment of new technologies, as well as in the creation of new forms of governance and value exchange. (Reffell, 2023)

Crowdsourcing in Web3 examples:-

DAOs: Decentralised autonomous organisations (DAOs) are organisations that are run through rules encoded as computer programs on a blockchain network. DAOs are governed by their members, who vote on proposals and make decisions collectively. Examples of DAOs include MakerDAO and Aragon.

Prediction Markets: Prediction markets are decentralised platforms that allow users to make predictions on the outcome of events and earn rewards for accurate predictions. Examples of prediction markets include Augur and Gnosis

Decentralised Exchanges (DEXs): Decentralised exchanges are platforms for trading cryptocurrencies and tokens without the need for a central authority or intermediaries. Examples of DEXs include Uniswap and Curve.

Decentralised Identity Systems: Decentralised identity systems are platforms that allow users to control and manage their personal information and data, rather than relying on central authorities or intermediaries. Examples of decentralised identity systems include Sovrin and uPort.

In conclusion, by utilising the combined knowledge of many participants, crowdsourcing has the potential to revolutionise creativity and problem-solving. Its capacity to combine a variety of viewpoints and abilities not only encourages innovation but also offers an economical way to address difficult problems. Its attractiveness stems from the speed at which solutions are generated and the active participation of communities, which fosters the growth of unorthodox ideas. But obstacles like upholding quality control and handling moral issues like equitable recompense and privacy issues highlight the necessity of cautious execution. With the integration of intelligent algorithms and automation in technology, crowdsourcing looks to have a bright future ahead of it, providing even more effective and significant collaboration in a variety of disciplines.

REFERENCE

Desai, A., Kuderer, N. M., & Lyman, G. H. (2020). Crowdsourcing in crisis: Rising to the occasion. JCO Clinical Cancer Informatics, (4), 551–554. https://doi.org/10.1200/cci.20.00054

Hargrave, M. (n.d.). Crowdsourcing: Definition, how it works, types, and examples. Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/crowdsourcing.asp#:~:text=While%20crowdsourcing%20often%20involves%20breaking,samples%20for%20a%20small%20fee.

Reffell, C. (2023, February 7). What is the role of crowdsourcing in web3?. Crowdsourcing Week. https://crowdsourcingweek.com/blog/crowdsourcing-in-web3/#:~:text=Crowdsourcing%20in%20Web3%20is%20made,transactions%20and%20interactions%20between%20participants.

Sickler, E., & Erin Sickler  Erin Sickler is a mindfulness & creativity coach living in the Hudson Valley. A former NY art curator. (2020, September 2). How to launch a Creative Crowdfunding Campaign for your next art project. art journal. https://artrepreneur.com/journal/creative-crowdfunding-for-artists/#:~:text=A%20well%2Ddesigned%2C%20online%20crowdfunding,win%20you%20fans%20for%20life.