Biomathematics
Biomatematik

FMAN01F, 7.5 credits

Valid from: Autumn 2013
Decided by: FN1/Anders Gustafsson
Date of establishment: 2014-01-27

General Information

Division: Mathematics
Course type: Course given jointly for second and third cycle
The course is also given at second-cycle level with course code: FMAN01
Teaching language: English

Aim

The course is established in order to introduce doctoral students to the usage of mathematical models for biological problems. Important applications where mathematical models are useful are e.g. within population dynamics, spreading of contageous diseases and midication. A further aim is to prepare the student for further studies in e.g. biological systems or evolution biology.

Goals

Knowledge and Understanding

For a passing grade the doctoral student must

• be able to present clearly and independently use basic mathematical concepts in biology, in particular regarding cell modelling, evolution dynamics and diffusion phenomena.
• be able to present and give an informal explanation of the mathematical theory behind some central biological models, such as non-linear difference equations, non-linear differential equations and reaction-diffusion equations.

Competences and Skills

For a passing grade the doctoral student must

• be able to use computer packages to simulate solutions of biological problems.
• be able to show good capability to independently identify biological problems which can be solved with mathematical modelling, and be able to choose an appropriate method.
• be able to independently apply basic modelling to biological problems which are relevant in industrial applications and research.
• with proper terminology, in a well structured way and with clear logic be able to explain the solution to a biological modelling problem.

Course Contents

Population growth. Non-linear difference equations. Evolution dynamics. Continuous models. Phase plane methods. Molecule dynamics. The cell cycle. Limit cycles, oscillations and excitable systems. Modelling of diffusion. PDE-models. Pattern formation.

Course Literature

Edelstein-Keshet, L.: Mathematical Models in Biology. McGraw-Hill College, 1988. ISBN 9780075549505.

Instruction Details

Types of instruction: Lectures, laboratory exercises

Examination Details

Examination formats: Written exam, oral exam, written assignments
Grading scale: Failed, pass
Examiner:

Admission Details

Course Occasion Information

Contact and Other Information

Course coordinators: