Xi’an Jiaotong – Liverpool University (XJTLU) is a new international university jointly founded by Xi’an Jiaotong University China and the University of Liverpool UK as a joint venture. As an independent Sino-Foreign cooperative university, it captures the essence of both prestigious parent universities and is the first and only one of its kind approved by the Ministry of Education in China.

The University offers undergraduate degree programmes in the fields of science, engineering and management, and awards both its own Chinese degree and a degree from the University of Liverpool.

Overview

• The MRes programme in Bioinformatics at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) is dedicated to training bioinformatics researchers. Targeted at graduates in bioinformatics, biological sciences, computer science, mathematics, and related fields, the programme aims to systematically teach the methods and applications of bioinformatics, equipping students with critical theoretical and practical skills for analysing and interpreting biological big data.

• The programme follows a progressive curriculum. The first semester focuses on core modules, covering genomics, proteomics, statistical genetics, machine learning, and relevant programming skills. In the second semester, students begin participating in research projects under the guidance of experienced supervisors, engaging in independent research and academic writing to gain valuable practical experience and enhance their scholarly writing abilities.

• XJTLU is equipped with advanced bioinformatics resources, such as high-performance computing clusters, ensuring students can quickly master the latest data analysis and computational techniques through laboratory work and practical assignments. These cutting-edge resources provide significant learning advantages for students and are a distinctive feature of the programme’s educational framework.

Knowledge and skills

Through this programme, graduate students will:

• • gain comprehensive mastery of core theoretical knowledge, analytical methods, and practical skills in bioinformatics, ensuring a solid foundation in the interpretation and application of biological data;
• • acquire proficiency in the intersecting methods and techniques of computer science, biology, and statistics, enabling efficient processing of large biological datasets and extracting critical information;
• • become highly sought-after professionals in computational biology and genomics, meeting industry’s and academia’s demand for advanced specialised skills;
• • independently design and manage research projects, including literature review, project planning, establishing data analysis frameworks, solving technical challenges, evaluating analytical results, and presenting project
• • develop vital transferable skills such as IT proficiency, effective communication, problem-solving, interpersonal skills, organisational management, public speaking, and time management, laying a solid foundation for future career success.

The integration of these abilities and skills ensures that graduates not only excel in academia but also demonstrate outstanding competitiveness and adaptability in various bioinformatics-related industries.

Careers

• The MRes programme in Bioinformatics at XJTLU significantly enhances graduates’ career prospects in both academia and industry, particularly in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare. Through this programme, graduates will acquire critical skills in the computation and analysis of biological data, making them highly sought-after professionals in genomics, drug development, and personalised medicine. Graduates are well prepared for various roles, including bioinformatician, researcher, and data analyst. Those interested in furthering their research can pursue a PhD, contributing to advancements and innovation in the field of bioinformatics.

Core Modules:
Semester 1
Advanced Methods in Biostatistics
Research Methods in Bioinformatics

Semester 2
Neural Networks And Deep Learning

Semester 3
Research Project

Semester 4
Research Project

Optional Modules
Semester 1
Technological Project Management
Global Perspectives on Public Health
Fundamentals of Machine Learning
Mathematics And Statistics For Data Science

Semester 2
Computer-assisted Drug Development
Statistical Computing Using SAS
Modeling for Computational Biology
Infectious Disease Epidemiology
Field Epidemiology Practicum
Chronic Disease Epidemiology

For the latest information regarding programmes, please refer to the official XJTLU website.

Why Choose XJTLU?

• Two Degrees: 1 from the University of Liverpool & 1 from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (Bachelor's students)
• The University of Liverpool degree (Master's and PhD students)
• All degree courses are taught 100% in English.
• No knowledge of the Chinese language is required to apply to XJTLU.
• Learn free of charge Chinese alongside your course.
• A friendly international community.
• International Opportunities: "2+2" study route to the University of Liverpool, UK for undergraduate students (more than 3,500 XJTLU students are now studying at the University of Liverpool, UK through "2+2")
• International Opportunities: Wide range of study abroad opportunities in partner institutions in Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, the UK, the USA, South Korea, Russia, etc.
• International Opportunities: Partnerships with multinational companies in the likes of HSBC, Standard Chartered, Siemens, KPMG, Alstom, Schneider, ICBC, etc.

About Suzhou

You have the opportunity to live in one of the most culturally rich areas of China, with Suzhou’s UNESCO World Heritage gardens and canals famous around the world.

Suzhou combines its rich 2,500-year-old history with a drive to become one of the most modern cities in China. It has a population of more than six million and a GDP of a trillion RMB – far larger than those of many entire countries!

Alongside its beautiful tourist spots, Suzhou has many excellent learning resources and sports facilities, a great choice of shopping malls, cinemas and restaurants, and a variety of bars and nightclubs.

Today, the city’s canals, stone bridges, pagodas, and meticulously designed gardens have contributed to its status as one of the top tourist attractions in China. The classical gardens in Suzhou were added to the list of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1997 and 2000.

Suzhou is located in the southeast of Jiangsu Province in eastern China. Within Suzhou is Suzhou Industrial Park, one of the most competitive development zones in China. This area also contains the Suzhou Dushu Lake Science and Education Innovation District (home to XJTLU), which sits beside Dushu Lake, one of two lakes in SIP.

Central Shanghai can be reached from Suzhou in just 30 minutes by high-speed train.

Library

XJTLU students have access to a wide range of library resources, from books and journals to electronic databases and articles. The library plays a key role as a research support and learning centre for the University, developing its collection by focusing on subject development and research requirements.

The library currently holds over 500,000 books, which are added to and updated throughout the year in response to requests from academic departments. It provides 22,000 square metres of space, housing 300 PCs and 2,500 seats for studying, discussion and computer and studio work.

Campuses

North Campus

Full of striking, architecturally impressive buildings, our North Campus provides state-of-the art teaching, laboratory, research and support facilities. This includes the award-winning and iconic Central Building, which houses our library.

The campus also has sports facilities, world class-fully equipped science and engineering laboratories, International Business School Suzhou, and design studios, as well as a variety of catering facilities, including Subway, Pacific Coffee Company, and many canteen-style fast-food options.

Landscaped gardens complement pieces of modern art to create a campus environment that has become one of the striking features of Suzhou Industrial Park.

South Campus

The first phase of our South Campus was opened to the public on 26 July 2016, as a major part of the University’s 10th anniversary celebrations.

Architecturally it contrasts our North Campus and features modern designs that complement the surrounding area. Eventually, the South Campus will satisfy the learning and teaching needs of approximately 6,000 XJTLU students as well as the University’s academic exchanges and research development plans. It will consist of eight buildings and be developed over two further phases:

Phase II: International Business School Suzhou at XJTLU

This phase will see the completion of a new building for International Business School Suzhou, set to open by the end of 2017.

PHASE III: XJTLU-GF School of Film and Television Arts and XJTLU Gym

Phase III consists of two buildings – the construction of the XJTLU-GF School of Film and Television Arts and a gym. Both buildings are expected to open by the end of 2018. The development of the School, in collaboration with financial services provider Gold Finance Group, is a significant part of XJTLU’s academic development strategy. It will mix digital media arts and film and television production and technology with performance and acting. The gym will provide improved and diversified sports facilities for students and staff on campus.

Living in University

When you come to XJTLU, you will have the opportunity to try a whole range of different sports and activities as well as developing any existing skills you already have.

Student clubs and societies

Student clubs and societies play an important part of student life. XJTLU has many organisations with themes such as art, sports, music, entrepreneurship, dance to name but a few. Some of the more established groups include a Model United Nations and the Student Union.

Another society, Intercom, provides a platform for all international students to arrange activities and events, and share ideas and experiences with the wider student body.

Catering

3 canteens, 3 coffee shops, Bar, Restaurants

Sports 

Currently, 21 sports are offered through PE classes at XJTLU, including badminton, basketball, belly dancing, billiards, boxing, bridge, Chinese martial arts, football, free combat, body building, golf, popping, roller-skating, sport dancing, table tennis, taekwondo, tai chi, tai chi sword, tennis, Ultimate Frisbee and yoga.

We have outside sport facilities that include basketball and tennis courts as well as indoor facilities, such as a golf training venue, gym, dance room, and table tennis room. There is also a football field located next to the new South Campus.