Computational and mathematical modelling plays an increasing role in modern biology. One reason is the vast complexity of living systems, ranging from the biochemistry that constitutes the functioning of a single cell on the molecular scale, to organisms and ecosystems. Another is that modern experimental techniques make quantitative data available that support mathematical descriptions of the phenomena of life, such as are often associated with physical sciences.
We would like to understand functionality of living systems at molecular level not only through the wet lab experiments but also through the development of sophisticated conceptual frameworks and appropriate mathematical models. Systems Biology attempts to integrate vastly different fields in character, mathematical modelling and biology, to illustrate that mathematical/computational models are, in fact, deep and sophisticated hypotheses that are intricate enough to capture the behaviours of complex molecular systems. Current emphasis of systems biology research is the study network of genes, proteins and other molecules linked by the biochemical reactions taking place within, and between, cells. A key focus is to understand phenomena that emerge from the way that constituent elements interact, whether these are molecules, biochemical reactions, cells or organisms. The system, not the building blocks, is the subject matter, and computational methods from diverse mathematical approaches are combined with biological knowledge to gain insight into how living systems function.
At Lincoln, systems biology is a major research focus of members of our Centre for Advanced Computational Solutions (C-fACS), where a significant number of PhD and Masters students are engaged in or have completed their thesis projects in this field. We also offer a number of postgraduate level subjects to prepare the way for such more advanced studies. Please contact any of us to explore more about your study options.