Elements of Mathematical Biology and Ecology

Mathematical modeling has become an essential tool in biology and ecology. In this course we will investigate several fundamental biological and ecological models. We will learn how to analyze existing models and how to construct new models. We will develop ecological and evolutionary models that describe how biological systems change over time. Models for population growth, predator-prey interactions, competing species, the spread of infectious disease, and molecular evolution will be studied. Students will be introduced to differential and difference equations, multivariable calculus, and linear and non-linear dynamical systems. (MATH 0121 or by waiver)