Overview

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 … For more content click the Read More button below. 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.

Rules

Enrolment Rule

Contacts

Chief Examiner(s)

Dr Mark Flegg

Unit Coordinator(s)

Dr Mark Flegg

Notes

This unit is offered in alternate years commencing Semester 2, 2019.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you should 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.

Assessment summary

Examination (3 hours and 10 minutes): 60% (Hurdle)

Continuous assessment: 40%

Hurdle requirement: If you would otherwise have passed the unit but who do not achieve at least 45% of the marks available for the end-of-semester examination will receive a Hurdle Fail (NH) grade and a mark of 45 on your transcript.

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.

Workload requirements

Workload

Availability in areas of study

Master of Mathematics