C++ for Biologists
Organizers
Scientific Programmer dr. Thijs Janzen (Theoretical Biology, Modeling).
Aim of the course
To learn to develop a computer program in the programming language C++ and to acquire a basic knowledge of computer simulation techniques and object-oriented programming.
Contents & Structure
This course, which is specifically designed for biology students, teaches the participants how to write computer programs in the programming language C++. The course covers the following topics:
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Procedural programming: data types, operators, program flow and functions
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The Standard Template Library
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Data input, generation of output including statistics like mean and standard deviation
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Numerical simulation techniques for biological models
More experienced programmers (including those who followed the BSc level course WBBY015-05) can instead focus on advanced topics, such as:
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Program design, algorithms and debugging
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Pointers and memory allocation
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Object-oriented programming
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Pseudo-random numbers and stochastic simulations
Specified learning objectives for the course unit
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Demonstrate sufficient working knowledge of the syntax rules of C++ to be able to assemble simple simulation algorithms
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Write code using a consistent programming style that complies with the quality standards for the documentation of scientific work
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Use professional resources for debugging, optimization and code development, including (scientific) programming libraries
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Explain the working principles and limitations of computational methods frequently used in modelling in the life sciences, and critically evaluate simulation results in the light of this knowledge
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Design a simulation algorithm to address a given biological research question, choose the most appropriate computational method for its implementation, and reflect on the biological implications of simulation results
The course provides students with a starter’s programming background, allowing further development by means of individual self-study. The course is obligatory for virtually all students who want to do a master’s or PhD project in theoretical biology and who have not yet acquired programming skills.
General Information
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Required knowledge & preparation
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Elementary computer and Windows literacy are required. It is not advisable to plan other activities next to this full-time course.
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Course material
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The course manual (ca. € 20,00) is obligatory and can be obtained from the Repro Service at the Bernoulliborg, Zernike Campus at the onset of the course.
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Course credits
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5 ECTS
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Location
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Zernike Campus, Groningen
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Duration & date
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10 November - 28 November 2025
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Costs
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There is no course fee for Master students and also no course fee for GELIFES PhD students. A course fee of € 275,- will be charged to all other students (for example from another university). The manual costs around € 20,00. For more information see Ocasys WMBY010-05
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Participants
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The number of participants is limited.
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Information
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For further information on this course, please contact Scientific Programmer dr. Thijs Janzen (Theoretical Biology, Modeling).
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Registration
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Master level students should register through the usual route. PhD level students may fill out this registration form. Registration for this course is open.
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