COM3001 Modelling and Simulation of Natural Systems
Summary |
This module will provide a practical introduction to
techniques used for modelling and simulating dynamic natural
systems. Many natural systems can be modelled appropriately
using differential equations, or individual based methods.
In this module, you will explore and understand both
modelling approaches. You will gain knowledge of the
assumptions underlying these models, their limitations, and
how they are derived. You will learn how
to simulate and explore the dynamics of computational
models, using a variety of examples mostly drawn from natural
systems. At the end of the module, we will introduce basic recurrent neural networks as examples of dynamical systems with multiple timescales. You should be aware that there are limited places available on this course. |
Session |
Spring 2023/24 |
Credits |
10 |
Assessment |
- Formal exam
- Programming assignment
|
Lecturer(s) |
Dr Luca Manneschi |
Resources |
|
Aims |
- to extend mathematical and computational skills for studying dynamical systems;
- to enable understanding, analysis and construction of individual based and differential equations based models of dynamical systems, while appreciating their advantages and limitations;
- to provide practical knowledge of schemes for the simulation of individual based and differential equations based models;
- to introduce the application of individual based and differential equations based models to biological systems;
- to provide experience in developing interdisciplinary teamwork skills.
|
Learning Outcomes |
By the end of this course the students should be able to:
- explain, critique and develop models of simple dynamical systems;
- write or extend code to simulate and visualize the dynamics of models, employing appropriate numerical methods;
- analyse mathematically the stability properties of simple dynamical systems;
- appraise applications of different modeling paradigms in the simulation of simple biological systems, while appreciating the benefits and limitations of each approach
|
Content |
The main focus of the module will be on the use of
differential equations and individual based models to
simulate the behaviour of natural systems. A number of
specific topics will be introduced that will be updated to
reflect recent developments, e.g.
- population dynamics
- physiological processes
|
Restriction |
Prerequisites for this module are programming proficiency (preferably in MATLAB or Python) and A-level Mathematics (or equivalent). |
Teaching Method |
Lectures plus practical sessions. |
Feedback |
Students will receive feedback via lab sessions, written feedback on submitted assignments, and/or individual on request. |
|