Biological Modelling and Model Analysis

Uitgebreide vaknaam	Biological Modelling and Model Analysis
Leerdoelen	Learning objectives: At the end of the course, the student is able to: 1) construct a quantitative model to address a biological research question 2) analyse a model with the help of mathematical techniques and computer simulation 3) derive biological insights from model analysis and communicate these to a broad audience 4) confront models with data and choose among models on the basis of empirical evidence 5) apply modelling strategies from a range of biological disciplines, and assess their strengths and weaknesses for addressing a given research question
Omschrijving	In this course, students are made familiar with all phases of the modelling cycle: the translation of biological questions into formal models; the simplification of models to manageable complexity; the analysis of models with the help of mathematical, numerical and simulation techniques; the presentation of the qualitative and quantitative conclusions obtained from the model analysis; the estimation of model parameters and model validation; model comparison and selection of the best-supported model on the basis of empirical data; the refinement of models on the basis of the interplay between modelling and model-based data analysis. Throughout the course, students will apply modelling and model analysis to research questions from various disciplines (e.g., systems biology, neurobiology, bioinformatics, phylogenetics, behavioural and social sciences, community ecology, evolutionary biology). The emphasis of the course will not only be on the technical aspects, but also (and perhaps even more) on the biological conclusions that can be drawn from a modelling approach. The course is taught by theoreticians working in different areas of biology, who are using a broad variety of modelling techniques. In this way, students gain an overview of the theoretical research done in the life sciences at the University of Groningen, as well as an understanding of the strength and weaknesses of different modelling strategies for addressing particular kinds of research questions. Half of the course consists of a structured program of lectures and computer practicals covering all aspects of the modelling cycle. Along the way, students will develop their own modelling project (from model building, analysis, interpretation and validation to communication of the results). The other half of the course provides an in-depth overview of modelling approaches used in various disciplines of the life sciences. For each topic, students submit one of the exercises for evaluation.
Uren per week
Onderwijsvorm	Hoorcollege (LC), Practisch werk (PRC) (Lectures in class room setting, Computer practicals & project)
Toetsvorm	Opdracht (AST), Presentatie (P) (The final grade of the course is based on a mark for the presentation of the modelling project with associated documentation (50% of the final grade) and the grades for hand-in assignments associated with the guest lectures (determining 50% of the final grade in total). Active participation in the computer practicals, the project and the assignments are a precondition for obtaining a final mark.)
Vaksoort	master
Coördinator	prof. dr. G.S. van Doorn
Docent(en)	prof. dr. R.S. Etienne ,prof. dr. C.K. Hemelrijk ,dr. A. Milias Argeitis ,prof. dr. I.R. Pen ,prof. dr. J. van de Koppel ,prof. dr. G.S. van Doorn ,prof. dr. F.J. Weissing
Verplichte literatuur	Titel Auteur ISBN Prijs Course syllabus with study material, exercises and solutions various authors
Entreevoorwaarden	Entry requirements are: sufficient background in mathematics and working knowledge of the computer algebra program Mathematica. These requirements can be met by completing the course Mathematics in the Life Sciences or an equivalent course.
Opmerkingen	The course is compulsory for the track Modelling in the Life Sciences, therefore students in this track have priority if the course is overbooked. The course unit prepares students for a research project in theoretical biology for which the learning objectives attained are required as prior knowledge. Study load: Lecture 100 hours,Practical 180 hours
Opgenomen in	Opleiding Jaar Periode Type MSc Biology: Modelling in the Life Sciences  ( Track Modelling in the Life Sciences) - semester I a verplicht MSc Biology: Research  (Compulsory master courses) - semester I a keuze MSc Biology: Science, Business and Policy  (Compulsory master courses) - semester I a keuze MSc Biomolecular Sciences  (Electives/Optional modules) - semester I a keuze MSc Courses for Exchange Students: Biology - semester I a verplicht MSc Ecology and Evolution: Ecology and Conservation  (Electives/optional modules) - semester I a keuze MSc Ecology and Evolution: Evolutionary Biology  (Electives/optional modules) - semester I a keuze MSc Marine Biology: Research  (Compulsory master courses) - semester I a keuze