Frequently Asked Questions
I already registered for a module. How do I pay?
Paying is simple. Just follow these steps:
1. Go to the menu at top right corner of the website and click Member Dashboard.
2. Log in using your account credentials.
(Note:If you registered for a module, we already created an account with your registration email as user name. In that case, simply use the Forgot your password form, and a reset link will be sent to your email. Use it to set a new password and log in. You will also need to confirm your email, which is a different step.)
After logging in, you will find your invoice under the Invoices section of your dashboard. You can pay directly from there.
Alternatively, please contact info@coding4medicine.com, and we will email you your invoice.
I cannot see the module I registered for in the invoice. How do I pay?
A module may not get included in the invoice for a couple of reasons:
1. Course plans are not finalized yet: For example, we are still finalizing dates for the lab modules, and the invoices are not generated until everything is confirmed. We will notify you once the module is ready.
2. Advanced module: This module has a selection process. Invoices are generated only after a student has been accepted.
I do not see dates on the lab modules. When will they take place?
Currently, the lab modules do not have specific dates posted, but here is the update:
We typically conduct the lab sessions in dedicated rooms at the Bellevue College, and they are available only after the college finalizes its summer program. For the 2025 summer session, we already secured those rooms, so that part is taken care of.
Dr. Bose emailed all registered students to gather their preferred dates for the lab sessions. If you have not received that email, please reach out to us at info@codingformedicine.com. We will be releasing the finalized lab dates very soon based on student preferences.
How do I sign up for the Advanced Module, and what happens after I register?
The Advanced Module is a summer-long program where students work on a research project.
Limited seats: We only accept a small number of students, so admission is selective.
Eligibility: You must complete the Intermediate Module before applying. If you have not, your application is unlikely to be accepted.
What happens after sign-up: We review all applications and reach out individually. This can take time, as we receive a high volume of interest.
Who should sign up for the Introductory Module?
The Introductory Module is perfect for students relatively new to coding. It teaches Python programming using real biological problems. If you are a complete beginner in coding, we will teach you from scratch. No biology background is required, and we explain all necessary concepts.
However, even if you already know some Python, this module could be right for you. For those with prior coding background, we provide more advanced problems. Everyone gets challenges suited to their level.
We teach several important skills including - (i) how to convert your ideas into algorithms, (ii) application of coding in the context of biological data, (iii) using Linux operating system.
For those with prior coding experience, a challenging project involves analyzing the SARS-CoV-2 genome, where students: (i) Use a Linux account, (ii) Identify all genes in the genome, (iii) Compare sequences with related viruses (e.g., from bats).
We also organize debates on various scientific topics, and the students seem to enjoy them. This encourages critical thinking.
What is covered in the Intermediate Module?
The Intermediate Module assumes good coding skills and focuses on applying them to biological problems.
Key topics include:
1. Gene identification from genome and GFF files.
2. Learning to use BioPython, a powerful library for biological data analysis.
3. Understanding biological data formats and file types.
4. Investigating real-world biological questions such as: (i) The evolutionary origin of whales, (ii) A human genetic disorder using genome data.
5. You will also learn how to find and use public biological databases to obtain data for your research.
6. Finally, we spend a day on how to understand research papers and find information on related topics using citation tools like google scholar. Students are assinged a recent paper, and they present on its content.
Class Location: Where are in-person classes held?
All in-person classes take place at Bellevue College, located near I-90.
Note: We are not affiliated with Bellevue College. We simply rent rooms there to conduct both lab and coding-related in-person classes.
What does a typical online class look like?
In our online class, we use both Zoom and a chat-based platform to facilitate learning. We deliver instructions live over Zoom and then use the chat forum for ongoing communication.
Every student sends his code to the instructor via direct messages in the chat platform. This allows everyone to work independently without distractions from others. We respond to each student individually through direct message offering feedback and guidance. If a concept or issue is relevant to everyone, the instructor either posts it in the main chat or bring it up during our Zoom session so the whole class benefits.
What if I cannot attend all sessions due to other commitments?
That is totally okay for the coding-related modules. If you let us know in advance, we will make sure the session is recorded. You can watch the recording later at your convenience, and then send us your code through direct message just like during class. We will review it and provide feedback as usual, so you will not fall behind.
What kind of computers do I need? Any special installation?
For the introductory module, any laptop with internet connection is ok. We use Python sandbox during the first few days.
For later part of the introductory module and the entire intermediate module, you will log into our server to work. So, make sure you have admin access or can install ssh software to log into a remote machine.
Can I use Python installed in my laptop instead of Python sandbox?
Absolutely. If you are familiar with it, feel free to go ahead.
Do you send us any certificate after completion of the course? Can I post it in my linkedin profile?
Yes, we send everyone a paper certificate after completion of the course. Please make sure to send us your address at the end of the session. The certificates are usually mailed at the end of the summer.
