Mark Miller , Master's Student in Bioinformatics

Name: Mark Miller
Degree Program: MS (Non-Thesis) in Bioinformatics
Graduating: 2009
Employment: Merck & Co.

Why I chose USP

I wanted to get a degree in Bioinformatics, not a degree in Biotechnology with a concentration in Bioinformatics. USP is the only University in Philadelphia that offers this option. Also, the class schedule is totally compatible with a traditional 9-5 job.

What I like best about my program

There is a good integration between learning programming languages and techniques, along with specific applications to biological problems. My professors are very available for one-on-one guidance, as long as a student makes an effort to reach out to them.

Current research interests

For BI790, I am writing programs to look through the PDB for the structures of enzymes in complex with their natural substrates. It is really exciting to work on a problem that other researchers in my field are also struggling with.

How this program will help me professionally

I am getting a better idea of when there are existing algorithms for processing my data, and when I will need to develop my own. When there are existing tools, I will be more productive in less time. When I do need to develop something, I will be better prepared to do so.

Other Things I Want People to Know about USP

This program is challenging, but I have not come across a single topic yet which hasn’t been of some value to my current work.