Gary Benson

Dr. Gary Benson is an Associate Professor of Biology and Computer Science at Boston University, affiliated with the Program in Bioinformatics. He leads the Laboratory for Biocomputing and Informatics, focusing on developing algorithms and software tools for analyzing DNA and RNA sequences. His work emphasizes patterns, repeats, and genetic variation detection. He holds a PhD from the University of Maryland (1992). Courses taught include Biological Database Systems, DNA Sequence Analysis, and Pattern Matching Algorithms. Key contributions include the Tandem Repeat Finder (TRF) software and the Tandem Repeats Database (TRDB). Current research explores tandem repeats, VNTRs, and their applications in genomics and clinical diagnostics.

Research interests span computational genomics, bioinformatics tool development, and sequence analysis. His lab collaborates on projects involving pathogen detection (e.g., Clinical PathoScope), genomic variation studies, and aging genetics. Ongoing work includes VNTRseek for detecting tandem repeat variants in high-throughput sequencing data.

Notable tools developed: TRF, TRDB, IRDB, FHub, CHub, and GlycReSoft for glycomics analysis. He directs the REU-BRITE training program, fostering interdisciplinary bioinformatics research for undergraduates.