Program Details

Our course introduces you to the UNIX command line environment, teaches you how to manage large datasets using text processing utilities such as sed and awk, and shows the basics of shell scripting.
Location:
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Program Type:
Study Abroad
Degree Level:
Undergraduate
Term:
Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

With the growing availability of extremely large datasets, these days, scientists and analysts need to use powerful supercomputers or computer clusters to store, manage and analyse their data. These servers typically run on UNIX, which requires some programming skills and understanding of relevant software packages to get the job done.

Our course introduces you to the UNIX command line environment, teaches you how to manage large datasets using text processing utilities such as sed and awk, shows the basics of shell scripting (if/else statements, loops, etc.) which you can use to automate analysing your data (for example, using a UNIX version of the freely available statistics program R), and familiarizes you with Git as a version control tool. You also learn how to present your data and results in customized plots and figures.

 

Learning objectives:

  • You understand the Unix philosophy and environment: files, processes, pipes, filters and basic utilities.

  • You are familiar with login and logout procedures, including remote login using SSH, and setting, protecting and changing passwords.

  • You can transfer files between systems with SFTP, SCP and RSYNC.

  • You can manipulate text files with sed, awk, cut, paste, cat, etc.

  • You can edit text using the VI editor.

  • You are familiar with automation through shell scripts.

  • You are familiar with version control using Git.

  • You can work with R from the UNIX command line.

  • You can plot in R.

Cost:
1000 EUR. The tuition fee includes: • Airport pick-up service • Welcome goodie bag • Orientation programme • Course excursions • On-site support • Emergency assistance • Transcript of records after completion of the course

Additional Program Information

Scholarships:
Yes
Scholarships Description:
The VU Amsterdam Summer School offers ten scholarships that cover the full tuition and housing fees of one course. Information about how to apply for the scholarship will be posted on the VU Amsterdam Summer School website.