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 | Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences |
| Discipline | Mathematics |
| Coordinator | Professor Barbara Holland |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Honours |
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
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
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Assessment | Presentation (10%)|Test (30%)|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. |
|---|
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.