Monday, August 27, 2012

Biomath class - 2 credit hours - this fall


For students with some biology and some math interest who are still looking for something special to do this Fall, this should be great information. Check out http://www.math.uiuc.edu/biomath/ for more information.

Course Announcement for Fall 2012

BioMath: IB/MATH 299 Section MBS

2 Credits

Meets Monday 2:00-3:50

BioMath is open to all students

BioMath is an project-based exploration of the role of math and modeling in modern biology. This seminar on mathematical biology is intended for bio and math students at all levels. The course is very hands-on, with each small group teaming up with one bio professor and one math professor. The course is focused on using modern mathematical software and numerical methods to solve real problems using real data. Students will also have the opportunity to spend a time in the lab helping to collect the data being used. Projects span a wide range of biological processes and scales such as global climate change, infectious disease, and mammalian evolution. Mathematical topics covers include but are not limited to data visualization, statistical model parameterization, and numerical approaches to optimization and equation solving.

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 Illinois Biomathematics Program

 We are excited to invite another group of students to the Illinois Biomathematics Program (IBP)!

Mathematical modeling plays a critical role in modern biology across all scales of organization from the bioinformatic tools that drive genomics up to the global ecosystem models used in climate change projections. Learning to work at the interface between math and biology and developing computational skills are emerging as critical needs for all biologists.

The Illinois Biomathematics Program is a new interdisciplinary research and training experience for undergraduates majoring in either IB or Math.

Unlike traditional math courses, which are focused on proofs and derivations, the IBP is focused on learning the practical modeling skills employed in modern research and connecting theory to real world data. Throughout the program students will be co-mentored by both Math and IB faculty and will work in small groups with both Math and IB students. The program consists of:

     * a fall project-based course (Math 299 MBS, BioMath)

     * a spring research seminar and independent study, and

     * a summer research experience.

The IBP will provide participating students with a summer stipend, research stipend, and travel support to present at a regional or national meeting. Students who start in the Fall project-based course will receive preference for later IBP activities.

More information about the IBP can be found at: