Methods for mathematical modelling and computer simulation of biological processes and functions. Of primary concern is the nervous system (nerve cells and neuronal networks) but other systems are also treated. Intracellular processes like biochemical networks, enzyme kinetics, cell signalling, genetic networks and switches are treated, as well as biological morphogenesis and some current theories of biological perception, learning and memory.

After the course, the student should be able to

• explain the useage of, and the assumptions behind biophysical and biochemical models and methods
• compute basic biophysical and biochemical entities in stochiometry, ion statics and ion dynamics, diffusion and cell compartments
• exemplify the usage of continous, stochastic or boolean models
• explain models for synapes and their plasticity and of networks of neurons
• use and develop simulation programs for genetic, biochemical, and neural networks

so that the student

• is able to explain the useage of, and the assumptions behind biological models
• in the working life can perform biological modeling and simulation work

The course consists of three parts

• Labs - laboratory works (LAB1)
• Exam - written examination (TEN2)
• Project - group project (PRO2)

Period 1 includes lectures 1-8, written examination based on the material of lectures 1-8 and laboratory works 1, 2 and 4 (or 3 for students after course DD2401 Neuroscience).

Period 2 consists of a reading project (or a small modeling study), as well as lectures 9-10 and laboratory 5. Students following the course DA7048 at SU skip the lectures and the lab.

Exam result, graded A-E, determines the course result provided other parts are completed.

The mandatory courses for D, E, and F in mathematics, numerical analysis and computer science or the equivalent. Recommended the courses: DD2400 Cellular and Molecular Biology and DD2401 Neuroscience or the equivalent.

Students at KTH with a permanent disability can get support during studies from Funka:

Funka - compensatory support for students with disabilities

A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

• LAB1 - Laboratory Work, 1.5 credits, Grading scale: P, F
• PRO2 - Project, 3.0 credits, Grading scale: P, F
• TEN2 - Examination, 4.5 credits, Grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

Examination (TEN2; 4,5 university credits).
Laboratory assignments (LAB1; 1,5 university credits). Project assignment (PRO2; 3 university credits.).

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.