Computational Biology refers to work at the interface between computing and the life sciences. Life scientists study enormously complex systems, such as living cells, the human brain, or the evolution of life on our planet; in turn producing vast amounts of data, such as DNA sequences. Making sense of such data requires computational tools including applied mathematics, algorithms, databases, image analysis, and machine learning. Likewise, the design of algorithms and machines can also draw inspiration from biological systems leading to bioinspired robots, computer immune systems, and evolutionary approaches to optimization.
Computational Biology research at EPFL broadly focuses on neuroscience (modeling of neuronal activity, 3D mapping of neuronal connections), evolutionary biology (comparative genomics and phylogenetic analysis) and bioinspired robotics.