Mathematics 353 - Advanced Topics in Discrete Applied Mathematics: Calderwood Seminar on Applied Algebraic Combinatorics and Mathematical Biology

Topics course: Combinatorial ideas permeate biology at all scales, from the combinatorial properties of the sequences of letters (nucleotides) representing DNA and RNA, to the symmetries often observed in cell divisions, to the graphs that can be used to represent evolutionary trees.  We will focus on key combinatorial ideas that arise on multiple scales in biology, including molecular, cellular, and organism, especially: counting and classification, symmetries, and combinatorial graphs.  The class will interview mathematicians and biologists about their current research, and will prepare multiple reports and presentations for different kinds of popular audiences (for example: kids, biologists, and newspapers).  No particular biological background is expected.  MTH 153 and an additional proof-based course are required, or permission of the instructor.  MTH 233 and MTH 254 or their equivalents are useful but not required.

Not open to first-years, sophomores