Her Stem Space

With the development of modern technology and the rise of technological fields, technology has found a footing in nearly every aspect of human life. As computers and their capabilities continue to grow, scientists and researchers have had to brainstorm new ways to conduct more efficient research using computers in order to keep answering their questions. Some of these innovative research techniques have involved intertwining computer technology with various scientific disciplines—leading to the creation of entirely new fields. The answer for biological sciences? Computational biology.

Computational biology works with models of DNA structures and cells to help us answer pressing questions: How do these systems function? How do certain changes lead to the effects we see in daily human life with our own eyes? And—perhaps most intriguingly—how can we manipulate those changes to create the effects we want to see? According to Carnegie Mellon University, the main role of computational biology is to answer the question: “How can we learn and use models of biological systems constructed from experimental measurements?” (Murphy 1). In essence, computational biology uses biological experimental data to construct computer-generated models of biological systems—and uses those models to further our understanding in biology and across other scientific fields.

Computational biology is a broad discipline, and it plays a critical role in a wide range of research and development areas—including biology, medicine, engineering, environmental science, and many more. Leveraging computers to carry out biological research is an incredibly valuable skill that helps scientists continue solving the many problems facing the modern world. These computers can be used to create models that reflect both past and present data tied to a specific research question. They can also process new data, generate fresh predictions, and provide insights that help address ongoing scientific inquiries. Accuracy to the experiments is key—and computational biologists must always hold that key.

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Works Cited

Murphy, Ryan F. “What Is Computational Biology?” Ray and Stephanie Lane Computational Biology Department – School of Computer Science – Carnegie Mellon University, Carnegie Mellon University, cbd.cmu.edu/about-us/what-is-computational-biology.html. Accessed 22 May 2025. 

Jasmine Tran is a sophomore at San Diego State University studying chemistry before medical school. She is interested in the chemical processes of the brain.