3.0

credits

Average Course Rating

The ability of ecosystems to recover from natural events and human actions is increasingly being threatened by climate change. This course is a study of ecosystems using mathematical models, with a particular focus on quantifying their resilience. We will model a number of ecosystems, including rainforests, lakes, temperate forests, savannas, and grasslands. We will analyze ecological phenomena that impact public health and commerce. These include lake eutrophication and anoxia, forest fires, and insect outbreaks. We will study whole-earth mathematical models, biodiversity, and models to study the spread and control of pandemics. New this semester will be game theory applications, urban ecosystems and environmental justice. In all cases, potential pro-active and reactive management and control approaches will be evaluated. Mathematical techniques will be introduced and developed in a context-sensitive manner. Undergraduate and graduate students are welcome to enroll. Recommended course background (i.e. potentially useful but not required): EN.553.291 or AS.110.302, or equivalent.