MTH5351 - Mathematical biology - 2019

This unit is an introduction to some of the most important mathematical concepts in theoretical biology and a more in depth investigation into an elective area of interest. The coursework for this unit will be entirely mathematical and assumes no prior expertise in biology. The course also includes a significant project whereby students will be paired with students enrolled in M6030 (Master of Biotechnology) to investigate a real biological question in an interdisciplinary setting.

The aim of the course is to introduce both mathematical methods and biological applications and to generate a realisation of the potential of mathematics in biological research. The lectures will be organised by application (population, chemical, physiological, etc) but will focus on mathematical analysis and the insights that they generate.

We will focus on phenomenological models of continuous, discrete or stochastic natures as opposed to data-driven areas of mathematics such as computational mathematics, statistics, data science, machine learning, etc. One of the core components of the unit will be elected by each student enrolled in MTH5351 and an extension reading course will be organised in this area.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Apply and extend classical models in mathematical biology.
2. Use sophisticated mathematical techniques in the analysis of mathematical models in biology.
3. Construct mathematical models for biological systems.
4. Apply critical thinking to address problems in an interdisciplinary group setting.
5. Communicate effectively across interdisciplinary borders.
6. Individually manage student-directed learning and research concentrating on a particular area of mathematical biology at a level above that of the lecture material.

NOTE: From 1 July 2019, the duration of all exams is changing to combine reading and writing time. The new exam duration for this unit is 3 hours and 10 minutes.

Examination (3 hours): 60% (Hurdle)

Continuous assessment: 40%

Hurdle requirement: To pass this unit a student must achieve at least 50% overall and at least 40% for the end-of-semester exam.

This unit is offered at both Level 4 and Level 5, differentiated by the level of the assessment. Students enrolled in MTH5351 will be expected to demonstrate a higher level of learning in this subject than those enrolled in MTH4351. The assignments and exam in this unit will use some common items from the MTH4331 assessment tasks, in combination with several higher level questions and tasks.

• 3 hours of lectures and 1 hour tutorial per week
• 10 hours of independent study per week

See also Unit timetable information

Master of Mathematics