BINF 354 Foundations in Mathematical Biology

                                                                  Fall, 2006
                                             Mondays, Wednesday, 9-10:15 AM
                                                Krasnow Institute Lecture Hall

Instructor: Dr. Kim L. Blackwell

Office Location: Krasnow Institute, Room 105

Office Hours: Wed 10:30-11:30 am or by appointment

Course Description:

Text:

Required: A Primer of Ecology, Nicholas Gotelli, 3d edition, Sinauer

Mathematical Physiology, Keener and Sneyd, Springer

Book of Genesis, Bower and Beeman, available on-line

Method of Instruction: Each class will consist of lectures explaining the material in the text. Mandatory reading should be completed prior to the lecture.

            Homework is assigned weekly. Homework turned in one week late will be graded, but is penalized by one letter grade. Homework will not be accepted two or more weeks late.

            Four different topics are covered, and there is one, non-cummulative exam for each topic. The exam will consist of problems similar to those assigned for homework.

            The project:is a written report and oral presentation on a career that uses some aspect of mathematical biology. Include the following information: description of career, education required (degree and field), experience required, opportunities (number of positions), location, salary and benefits, and resources / bibliography.

            1. Identify career (due 10/23)

            2. Outline (due 11/06)

            3. Expanded outline (one topic sentence for each expected paragraph, due 11/20)

            4. Final report (due 12/04)

            5. Oral presentation

Grading:

Homework: 20%

Project: 20%

Exams: 20% each (top three counted)

Important Dates:         Sept 14: Last day to add, or drop with no tuition liability

Oct 1: Last day to drop with no academic liability

Honor Code: GMU Academic Policies apply in full (http://www3.gmu.edu/catalog/apolicies/).

SYLLABUS