Courses & Units
Advanced Topics in Mathematical Biology KMA457
Introduction
“Mathematics Is Biology's Next Microscope, Only Better; Biology Is Mathematics' Next Physics, Only Better” - Joel E Cohen (2004)
The topics covered in this unit may differ slightly from year to year based on staff availability and students’ interests. Topics will be broadly chosen from applications of mathematics (and statistics) to solve problems in evolution and ecology. For example, topics may include
• Stochastic models of DNA sequence evolution and their application to phylogenetic inference
• Application of mathematical methods to behavioural, community, and evolutionary ecology.
• Modern statistical methods for assessing biological models using real data
• Dynamic programming and combinatorial optimisation for sequence alignment and phylogenetics
• Applications of algebraic structure in evolution
This unit is an optional unit for students enrolled in Honours Mathematics, Statistics & Decision Science, or by permission of the Unit Coordinator.
Summary
| Unit name | Advanced Topics in Mathematical Biology |
|---|---|
| Unit code | KMA457 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | College of Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences |
| Discipline | Mathematics |
| Coordinator | Professor Barbara Holland |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
Availability
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | On-Campus | International | Domestic | |
| Hobart | Semester 2 | On-Campus | International | Domestic | |
Key
- On-campus
- Off-Campus
- International students
- Domestic students
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 2 | 11/7/2022 | 9/8/2022 | 29/8/2022 | 16/10/2022 |
| Semester 1 | 21/2/2022 | 22/3/2022 | 11/4/2022 | 29/5/2022 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2022 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2022 will be available from the 1st October 2021. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Apply a wide range of mathematical approaches to solve problems in mathematical biology
- Provide clear written and verbal presentation of mathematical reasoning applied in a biological context.
- Identify and explain the way problems arising in biology have motivated mathematical solutions.
Fee Information
| Field of Education | Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 | Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 | Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 | Domestic Full Fee 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 010199 | $498.00 | $498.00 | not applicable | $2,402.00 |
1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.
If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.
Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.
Teaching
| Assessment | Test (30%)|Presentation (10%)|Assignment (multiple) (60%) |
|---|---|
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
Links | Booktopia textbook finder |
|---|
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.