Frances Raftis, B.Sc., M.Sc.

E-mail: Frances dot Raftis at gmail dot com.

My CV is available as here, and here as a PDF file.

I am a software developer with an extensive background in biology. I've nearly finished my BCS degree. During this degree, I've focused on statistics, AI, and compilers. I'm interested in scientific computing, language and tool development. I also have a Master's degree in Computational Biology and Molecular Evolution. My first undergraduate degree is in Molecular Plant Biology.

In my thesis work, I focused on the relationship between structural and chemical features of the protein and the evolutionary rate of the individual protein sites. A number of works have identified a correlation between the replacement rate at a protein site and the degree of solvent exposure at that site, as well as between the rate and the distance of the residue from the active site. This observation seems to favour a neutral model of evolution, where the protein sites that play a more important role in maintaining the structure and function of the enzyme experience stronger purifying selection.

Here is a short project I did for a course, on the subject of codon bias in viral genomes, and how this bias compares to the host's codon usage patterns.

Here is another short project, exploring whether a large chloroplast open reading frame was likely to be a pseudogene.

I've used Java extensively in my CS coursework, and C++ in my work experience. I'm comfortable in either, but would most like to gain more experience working in C++. I'm also quite comfortable with Perl and the Linux OS from my thesis work. I have also learned to use many standard bioinformatic applications, sometimes to artistic effect.

I have lived in Vancouver for five years now, and I have been enjoying it immensely. I've been making good use of the pleasant weather, and have run two half-marathons since I've been here and cycled over 15,000 km. I often participate in events run by the BC Randonneurs, who are some of the friendliest endurance athletes around. I also enjoy inventive cooking and other varied creative tasks like drawing and fabric sculpture.


Here are some links to biology and bioinformatics resources:

Fitness links: