MT5856 Calculus of Variations in Biological Modelling

Academic year

2024 to 2025 Semester 1

Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.

Key module information

SCOTCAT credits

15

The Scottish Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SCOTCAT) system allows credits gained in Scotland to be transferred between institutions. The number of credits associated with a module gives an indication of the amount of learning effort required by the learner. European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits are half the value of SCOTCAT credits.

SCQF level

SCQF level 11

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.

Planned timetable

11am Mon (even weeks), Tue & Thu

This information is given as indicative. Timetable may change at short notice depending on room availability.

Module coordinator

Dr N Sfakianakis

Dr N Sfakianakis
This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module description

This module introduces students to the mathematical modelling of biological processes using the Calculus of Variations as its main tool. It starts with an introduction to the Calculus of Variations and its historical applications and continues to modern applications in Mathematical Biology. Students will gain first-hand experience in confronting research-level modelling questions as well as in applying advanced mathematical techniques in the biological setting.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisites

BEFORE TAKING THIS MODULE YOU MUST PASS MT3504

Assessment pattern

Coursework (2 x 25% projects) = 50%, 2-hour Written Examination = 50%

Re-assessment

Oral examination = 100%

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact

2.5 lectures (x 10 weeks), 1 tutorial (x 10 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours

35

The number of compulsory student:staff contact hours over the period of the module.

Guided independent study hours

116

The number of hours that students are expected to invest in independent study over the period of the module.

Intended learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate a familiarity with the relevant biological and bio-mathematical literature.
  • Demonstrate skills in research for associated biological questions, and in the formulation of appropriate modelling approaches.
  • Develop and compare alternative mathematical models using classical analysis and variational methods.
  • Use and develop variational techniques and first principles approaches to applications in biological problems.
  • Understand and follow the scientific feedback loop: biology - mathematical modelling - analysis - scientific computing.