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Department of Mathematical Sciences, Unit Catalogue 2011/12


MA40197: Advanced mathematical biology

Click here for further information Credits: 6
Click here for further information Level: Masters UG & PG (FHEQ level 7)
Click here for further information Period: Semester 1
Click here for further information Assessment: CW 100%
Click here for further information Supplementary Assessment: Like-for-like reassessment (where allowed by programme regulations)
Click here for further information Requisites: Before taking this unit you must take MA30047 and take MA30063 or equivalent units from another institution. MA30047 and MA30063 will be available as pre-sessional distance learning material for MSc students.
Students will require skills in MATLAB which they may achieve for example by taking MA50174 concurrently.
Click here for further information Description: Aims:
To study current problems in the biological and life sciences using mathematical modelling techniques.

Learning Outcomes:
After taking this unit, students should be able to:
* Build a mathematical model to address a particular research question in the biological and life sciences;
* Use a range of mathematical techniques to critically analyse the model;
* Interpret and present findings from the modelling in a manner appropriate to the audience;
* Read and summarise a research papers; learn to critically discuss and evaluate their quality as a publication in the field of Mathematical Biology
* Prepare and present a seminar.

Skills:
Modelling biological systems (model formulation, analysis, interpretation, refinement) (T, F, A); Critical analysis of research papers (T, A); Presentation skills (T, F, A).

Content:

* Biological concepts will include a selection from: biological control; contact networks; ecological interactions; epidemiological dynamics; evolutionary theory; populations structured by age, space or other characteristics; transient behaviour; tumour development. Case studies will be used to highlight current research interests.
* Modelling approaches will include a selection from: cellular automata; control systems; dynamical systems; network structures; reaction-diffusion equations; simulation.
* Mathematical techniques will include a selection from: bifurcation theory; bounds and stability; numerical solution (using and adapting MATLAB programs); perturbation theory.
* Research techniques will include a selection from: reading and summarising research papers; preparing and giving seminars; producing and presenting technical posters.
Click here for further informationProgramme availability:

MA40197 is Compulsory on the following programmes:

Department of Mathematical Sciences
  • TSXX-AFM01 : MSc Mathematical Biology (Full-time) - Year 1

MA40197 is Optional on the following programmes:

Programmes in Natural Sciences
  • UXXX-AFM01 : MSci (hons) Natural Sciences (Full-time) - Year 4
Department of Mathematical Sciences
  • USMA-AFM14 : MMath Mathematics (Full-time) - Year 4
  • USMA-AAM15 : MMath Mathematics with Study Year Abroad (Full-time with Study Year Abroad) - Year 4
  • TSMA-AFM09 : MSc Mathematical Sciences (Full-time) - Year 1
  • TSMA-APM09 : MSc Mathematical Sciences (Part-time) - Year 1
  • TSMA-APM09 : MSc Mathematical Sciences (Part-time) - Year 2
  • TSMA-AFM08 : MSc Modern Applications of Mathematics (Full-time) - Year 1
  • TSMA-AFL02 : PG Dip Modern Applications of Mathematics (Full-time) - Year 1

NB. Programmes and units are subject to change at any time, in accordance with normal University procedures.