Bioinformatics is an increasingly important scientific discipline dedicated to the pursuit of fundamental questions about the structure, function and evolution of biological entities through the design and application of computational approaches. Fundamental research in these areas is expected to increase our understanding of human health and disease which will lead to innovation in industry. As a field of research, it crosses traditional disciplinary boundaries such as computer science, chemistry, biology, biochemistry, engineering and the medical sciences. Today, bioinformaticians must be able to appreciate significant research in other fields. To meet this need, Carleton University and the University of Ottawa created a Collaborative Specialization in Bioinformatics.