Not offered 2007-2008
MATH 335T Biological Modeling with Differential Equations (Same as Biology 235T and Environmental Studies 235T) (Q)
Many biological phenomena can best be examined through fairly sophisticated mathematical models. In particular, differential equation models have been used to explain fluctuations in
food webs, the spread of disease, consequences of certain fishing practices, immune system
response to infection, spatial distribution of species, formation of zebra stripes, and flux
across cell membranes. We will introduce the mathematical machinery needed for these
models, including the theory of ordinary differential equations, phase portrait dynamics, and
partial differential equations. We will establish the biological assumptions that go into these
models and examine the consequent dynamics. Students will work in pairs covering material
and explaining it to one another, presenting worked problems, and critiquing each others
presentations.
Format: tutorial.
Prerequisites: Mathematics 105 and Biology 101 or equivalents thereof. Enrollment limit: 10
(expected: 10).
S. JOHNSON