"Dynamics" refers to the different ways that things change in time, such as the regular beating of a heart, the growth of a tree, or changes in the population of phytoplankton in the oceans of the world. To understand these behaviors often requires a radical research approach: groups of scientists from different disciplines working together to solve a common problem rather than collaborations of scientists from a single discipline. Duke University is at the forefront of multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary research where teams of students and faculty cross traditional disciplinary boundaries. As an example of such a research approach, this seminar will focus on dynamics of living systems, drawing on material from physics, mathematics, engineering, and biology, highlighting ongoing Duke projects. We will explore how periodic behaviors, chaos, and complexity emerge in various living systems.

Prerequisites

None.

Webpages

Fall 2003

Contact

Prospective students can get more information from the Director of Undergraduate Studies or the Director of Graduate Studies.

Updated: Jan-10-2003 | Contact: webmaster | Printable version
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