From Python to Bioinformatics and Deep Learning: Preparing the Next Generation of AI-Ready Healthcare Innovators

As artificial intelligence and data science continue to transform the landscape of research, healthcare and industry, the Department of Biomedical Informatics is helping students prepare for this rapidly evolving era through its popular programming bootcamp. Launched in 2023, the bootcamp is designed to empower undergraduates with the skills needed to excel in data-driven fields, fostering a generation of scientists and professionals ready to engage with cutting-edge technology.

Prateek Prasana, assistant professor in the Department of Biomedical Informatics (far left), with his students. Photo credit: Department of Biomedical Informatics

Offered each semester, the bootcamp draws approximately 50 students per term from academic backgrounds such as psychology, biology, computer science, applied mathematics and biomedical engineering. All are eager to explore the intersection of coding, scientific discovery and artificial intelligence. The bootcamp is gaining popularity across campus, with the most recent program drawing the highest number of attendees to date.

Structured into three dynamic sessions, the bootcamp provides students with both theoretical foundations and practical experience in key areas of programming and data science:

• Session 1 introduces the fundamentals of Python, equipping students with essential programming skills.
• Session 2 explores data visualization, machine learning and deep learning, offering insights into the core tools of modern AI.
• Session 3, which began in Fall 2024, expands the curriculum to cover bioinformatics and natural language processing -two rapidly growing areas in biomedical data science.

The addition of Session 3 provides students with exposure to real-world applications of AI in life sciences and healthcare. Throughout the program, dedicated teaching assistants support students through hands-on exercises on real-world use cases (such as RNAseq analysis and X-ray classification) and help solidify their understanding of complex topics.

The bootcamp has received enthusiastic feedback, particularly from freshmen and sophomores eager to begin their academic journey with high-impact, in-demand topics like AI and programming. "I had little to no experience in Python before, but this bootcamp helped me grasp the basics quickly and apply them to real-world problems," said a participant (in a survey) from the Department of Biology.

Students learn skills to excel in data-driven fields. Photo credit: Department of Biomedical Informatics

Participants have gone on to engage in AI-driven medical research, enroll in advanced courses offered by the department or even pursue a master's degree in biomedical informatics. Another surveyed student from applied mathematics remarked, "The exposure to machine learning and bioinformatics has given me a fresh perspective on how coding can be used in scientific research."

Students value the bootcamp's balanced approach, combining foundational instruction with hands-on experience - an approach that not only enhances their current studies but also builds a strong foundation for future research and careers in data-intensive fields.

Prateek Prasanna, assistant professor in the Department of Biomedical Informatics, said, "In an era where technology is continuously reshaping healthcare, research, and industry, our programming bootcamp isn't just about learning to code; we're giving students the fundamental tools to turn curiosity into innovation - using AI and data science to solve real-world problems. With a mix of foundational learning and practical experience, we're proud to be shaping the next generation of AI innovators."

With its continued growth and evolving curriculum, the programming bootcamp has become a cornerstone experience for students interested in biomedical informatics and beyond. As technology reshapes the future, this initiative equips students with the tools and confidence to lead in the age of AI and data science.

For more information about the programming bootcamp, contact Joseph Cesaria at joseph.cesaria@stonybrook.edu.