Machine Learning in R for the Biomedical Sciences: Methods for Prediction, Pattern Recognition, and Data Reduction (DATASCI 216)

Machine Learning in R for the Biomedical Sciences: Methods for Prediction, Pattern Recognition, and Data Reduction (DATASCI 216)

Formerly known as BIOSTAT 216

Winter 2026 (3 units)

This course covers machine learning methods for solving problems in biomedical research. Machine learning algorithms extract patterns from data to perform tasks such as prediction, clustering, and dimension reduction. Machine learning lies at the intersection between statistics and computer science. The techniques differ from traditional methods in that they scale with the size and complexity of the data. Course topics include supervised learning, unsupervised learning, evaluation/validation of machine learning algorithms, penalization methods for high-dimensional data, ensemble methods, and deep learning. Students will learn to apply these methods in R.
 

Objectives

The course objectives are:

  • Understand the rationale and mechanics of common machine learning techniques.
  • Learn how to evaluate and validate machine learning algorithms.
  • Be able to apply machine learning techniques in R.
  • Apply the knowledge and techniques to the completion of a real-world biomedical project.
Prerequisites
Faculty
Format

Each week, new material is introduced via an interactive lecture and recommended readings. Learning is reinforced via computer labs, structured discussion sections, and homework.

Lectures: Wednesdays, 8:45 AM - 10:15 AM. Jan 7 through Mar 18.  Lectures will be in-person. Lecture recordings will be available online later in the day.
Computer Laboratory:  Thursdays, 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM.  Jan 8 through Mar 19

The schedule for the quarter shows dates and times for all activities. All course materials and handouts will be posted on the course's online syllabus.

Materials

Software 
R
Rstudio

All course materials and handouts will be posted on the course's online syllabus.

Grading

Grades will be based on total points achieved on the homework assignments and class project. Please note that late assignments are not accepted.

Only UCSF students (defined as individuals enrolled in UCSF degree or certificate programs) will receive academic credit for courses. Official transcripts are available to UCSF students only. A Certificate of Course Completion will be available upon request to individuals who are not UCSF students and satisfactorily pass all course requirements.

UCSF Graduate Division Policy on Disabilities

To Enroll