Prospects

Code 6254 - Molecular and Computational Biology (activated from a.y. 2026/27)

Biologist

Functions
The professional profile targeted is that of a Biologist. In particular, the biologist is expected to possess molecular-level knowledge acquired through experimental biological methodologies (wet lab) and computational methodologies (dry lab), aimed at understanding the physiological and pathological functions of living organisms (humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms).

The professional figure of the Biologist can perform the following functions:

• by making use of both dry- and wet-lab methodologies, the biologist designs, carries out, and analyses the results of experiments conducted in biological, biomedical, and industrial research laboratories;

• carries out methodological protocols for data acquisition in analytical laboratories operating in different fields, including biomedical, environmental, and agri-food sectors;

• manages, collects, and processes data related to biological processes using information technologies;

• participates in activities promoting and developing technological and scientific innovation;

• organises management activities and scientific dissemination.

Skills
To perform these functions, the Biologist possesses:

• theoretical and practical knowledge in the molecular and cellular fields;

• the ability to design and conduct experimental work;

• the ability to use scientific instruments for advanced analytical applications;

• the ability to critically analyse results;

• the ability to effectively communicate the results of their work;

• an aptitude for continuous professional development;

• the ability to work in teams and interact with colleagues with different expertise in national and international contexts.

Career Opportunities
Graduates in Molecular and Computational Biology may access PhD programmes in Italy or doctoral (PhD) programmes abroad.
Upon passing the State Examination, graduates may register with the professional register of Biologists.

Employment opportunities include:

• Universities and public and private research institutions;

• Computing centres;

• Hospital organisations;

• Laboratories operating in the biomedical, biotechnological, biopharmaceutical, molecular biology, pharmacological, and bio-nanotechnological fields;

• Scientific research service agencies;

• Publishing houses, press agencies, and web-based outlets for scientific communication.

Bioinformatician

Functions
The role of the Bioinformatician is to create and apply information technologies for the analysis of biological systems.

The professional figure of the Bioinformatician can perform the following functions:

• manages and implements biological databases;

• manages and analyses human and non-human genomic DNA, taking data privacy into account, as well as RNA and proteins for diagnostic purposes;

• manages and designs innovative information technologies for the creation and management of medical and biological databases;

• applies and designs bioinformatic methodologies in various areas of molecular biology (structural biology, genomics, and systems biology);

• promotes and develops scientific and technological innovation both in research institutions and in industrial contexts;

• provides consultancy services for hospitals, biotechnology industries, and pharmaceutical companies.

Skills
To perform these functions, the Bioinformatician possesses:

• the ability to consult public and private biological databases and to develop them in-house when necessary;

• the ability to establish correlations between genes and diseases and to contribute to the development of models for understanding genotype–phenotype relationships;

• the ability to manage and analyse data from diagnostic centres using molecular screening techniques;

• the ability to develop specialised software for the characterisation of complex biological systems;

• the ability to develop customised solutions for specific problems in molecular and systems biology;

• the ability to work towards objectives, with strong communication skills;

• the ability to work in teams and interact with colleagues with different expertise in national and international contexts.

Career Opportunities
Graduates in Molecular and Computational Biology may access PhD programmes in Italy or doctoral (PhD) programmes abroad.
Upon passing the State Examination, graduates may register with the professional register of Biologists.

Employment opportunities include:

• Universities and public and private research institutions;

• Computing centres;

• Hospital organisations;

• Laboratories operating in the biomedical, biotechnological, biopharmaceutical, molecular biology, pharmacological, and bio-nanotechnological fields;

• Scientific research service agencies;

• Publishing houses, press agencies, and web-based outlets for scientific communication.