Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2024 - MATH 495 D100

Selected Topics in Applied Mathematics (3)

Mathematics of Evolution

Class Number: 2662

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 6 – Aug 2, 2024: Mon, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

    May 6 – Aug 2, 2024: Wed, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Aug 8, 2024
    Thu, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Will be specified according to the particular topic or topics offered under this course number.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The topics included in this course will vary from term to term depending on faculty availability and student interest.

COURSE DETAILS:

Methods and applications of mathematical models of biological evolution, covering both classical and contemporary theoretical approaches in the scientific literature. Methods will include using deterministic and stochastic models in continuous- (ordinary differential equations) or discrete-time (difference equations) and using computer simulations to model evolution. Topics may include resource competition, predator-prey interactions, and infectious diseases.

Grading

  • Assignments 20%
  • Midterm 20%
  • Project 30%
  • Final 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

 No required textbook, but the following textbooks may be useful:
 
- Otto and Day 2007 A Biologist's Guide to Mathematical Modeling in Ecology and Evolution, Princeton University Press, ISBN: 9780691123448
 
- Dercole and Rinaldi 2008 Analysis of Evolutionary Processes: The Adaptive Dynamics Approach and Its Applications, Princeton University Press, ISBN: 0691120064.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.