Module Identifier MA34810  
Module Title MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS  
Academic Year 2006/2007  
Co-ordinator Dr Simon J Cox  
Semester Semester 2  
Other staff Dr Simon J Cox  
Pre-Requisite MA25110  
Course delivery Lecture   14 Hours. (14 x one-hour lectures)  
  Seminars / Tutorials   6 Hours. (6 x one-hour exercise classes)  
  Practical   4 Hours. (2 two-hour computer classes)  
Assessment
Assessment TypeAssessment Length/DetailsProportion
Semester Exam2 Hours (written examination)  80%
Semester Assessment coursework (4 assignments)  20%
Supplementary Assessment2 Hours (written examination)  100%

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
1. Identify key parameters in a complex system upon which to base a model.

2. Demonstrate an understanding of the stability of the solutions to a mathematical model.

3. Apply a range of criteria to show that a system may behave chaotically.

4. Demonstrate an ability to solve differential and difference equations, including those representing population balances.

5. Explain the use of computers as a tool to explore complex dynamics.

Aims

Mathematical Biology is an area of interest that is growing rapidly in popularity; with a little knowledge of biology, mathematicians are now able to develop appropriate models of biological phenomena which are also of mathematical interest in their own right. Mathematicians who are familiar with rigorous biological modelling have extremely attractive employment prospects in this and related areas such as medicine.

Brief description

This course aims to develop students' ability to identify the key parameters in a complex system and create and solve a comparatively simple model, the results of which can then be related back to the original system. Examples will include chaotic population models and waves in reaction-diffusion systems.

Content

Continuous and Discrete Single Species Population Models; Logistic Map; Limit Cycles and Fixed points; Linear Stability Analysis; Transition to Chaos; Lyapunov Exponents.
Two species population models; Lotka Volterra; Predator Prey.
Spread of Epidemics; Cellular Automata; Game of Life.
Reaction Diffusion Equations; Propagating Wave Solutions; Travelling Fronts; Spatial Pattern Formation; Animal Coat Patterns.

Module Skills

Problem_solving In addition to problem classes, further exercises will be set and marked. These will involve the identification and derivation of appropiate solutions.  
Research skills Computer classes will allow students to explore the parameter space of a dynamical system, and draw conclusions about determining solutions relevant to the physical system.  
Communication Written answers to exercises must be clear and well-structured. Good listening skills are essential to successful progress in this course.  
Improving own Learning and Performance Students will be expected to develop their own approach to time-management in their attitude to the completion of work on time, and in doing the necessary preparation between lectures.  
Information Technology Students will be set exercises involving the use of computer and library facilities.  
Application of Number Necessary throughout.  
Personal Development and Career planning Completion of tasks (problem sheets) to set deadlines will aid personal development. The course will give cear indications of the range of possible employment opportunities available to students who successfully complete it.  

Reading Lists

Books
** Recommended Text
Murray, J. D. (1997) Mathematical Biology Springer 038757204X
Murray, J. D. (1989) Mathematical biology Springer Verlag 3540194606
** Supplementary Text
Crichton, M (1991.) Jurassic park Century 0712646868
Jones, D S and Sleeman, B D (2003) Differential Equations and Mathematical Biology CRC Press 1584882964
Jones, D S and Sleeman, B D (1983.) Differential equations and mathematical biology Allen & Unwin

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 6