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Instructor Class Description

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Guillaume Lajoie
AMATH 422
Seattle Campus

Computational Modeling of Biological Systems

Examines fundamental models that arise in biology and their analysis through modern scientific computing. Covers discrete and continuous-time dynamics, in deterministic and stochastic settings, with application from molecular biology to neuroscience to population dynamics; statistical analysis of experimental data; and MATLAB programming from scratch. Prerequisite: either MATH 307 or AMATH 351. Offered: A.

Class description

In AMATH 422/522, you will learn about models that arise in the life sciences and how they're analyzed using modern mathematical and computational techniques. We will cover statistical models, discrete- and continuous-time dynamical models, and stochastic models. Applications will sample a wide range of scales, from biomolecules to population dynamics, with an emphasis on common mathematical concepts and computational techniques. Throughout, our themes will include interpretation of existing data and predictions for new experiments. MATLAB and Python (see more below) will be used for numerical computations, visualization, and data analysis -- and mathematical tools taught in parallel with their computational implementation. No prior programming experience is assumed. This course is designed for students in a wide variety of departments and with backgrounds across the sciences. A working knowledge of calculus is assumed, together with a desire to learn more about the underlying science, mathematics, or both.

Student learning goals

General method of instruction

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Class assignments and grading


The information above is intended to be helpful in choosing courses. Because the instructor may further develop his/her plans for this course, its characteristics are subject to change without notice. In most cases, the official course syllabus will be distributed on the first day of class.
Last Update by Guillaume Lajoie
Date: 12/09/2011