The investigator and his colleagues conduct an experimental interdisciplinary training course at Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, on modeling of biological systems. The course lasts for six weeks and aims to rapidly introduce students, postdocs, and more senior investigators to a range of biology, mathematics, and computation. The goal is to bring them quickly to the point where they can begin effective collaborations with investigators of complementary expertise on biology problems of mutual interest. Innovative aspects of the project include its immersion in the subjects, thematic organization, modularity of content, interdisciplinary teaming during the course, and planned multi-year involvement of participants, including students. The richness of biology and the deeper understanding offered by mathematical analyses and modeling require concerted nurturing to foster the continuation and growth of collaborations at this interface. The investigator and his colleagues organize an intense interdisciplinary course on modeling of biological systems, aimed to provide the necessary common background for students and researchers in biology, mathematical sciences, and engineering. The goals of the course include: (a) training biologists in the use of fundamental and sophisticated modeling oaradigms and tools, (b) training mathematical scientists in a biological arena, including laboratory experience, (c) bringing computational and experimental biologists together in considering certain specific research areas, (d) establishing a common framework for addressing quantitative analysis and understanding of biological systems, (e) serving as an interdisciplinary training and resource venue for addressing questions of modeling of biological systems. In addressing these goals, the course fosters the development of the shared language and skills necessary for scientists, mathematicians, and engineers to collaborate in solving key problems.
