PhD Studentship: Mathematical Models for the Characterisation of the Dynamics of Biological systems

Biological systems are constantly exposed to changing environments and adapt to them. That is, biological systems are capable of gathering information about their environments and processing them. This ability to gather and process information does not require sophisticated organs like the brain of an animal. For instance, slime mould — a large brainless amoeba-like cell — can solve computationally difficult problems in a relatively short time. Or, recent experiments suggest that common bean plants can detect the existence of objects in their vicinities. These, and countless other examples, beg the question how basic biological systems such as a single cell are capable of processing information. The aim of this project is to regard the interaction between biological systems and their environments as a communication channel, and to model and predict the dynamical behaviours of biological systems using techniques of communication theory. A strong background in modern stochastic analysis, and stochastic filtering theory in particular, would be ideal to develop this line of research. 

The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training related to all aspects of the research and opportunities to participate in conferences, workshops and seminars to develop professional skills and research network. 

Supervisor: Professor Dorje Brody

This is a minimum 3 year project. We are able to offer this opportunity starting in January 2023. 

Entry requirements 

Applicants should have a minimum of a first class honours degree in mathematics, the physical sciences or engineering. Preferably applicants will hold a MMath, MPhys or MSc degree, though exceptional BSc students will be considered. 

English language requirements: IELTS Academic 6.5 or above (or equivalent) with 6.0 in each individual category. 

How to apply 

Applications should be submitted via the Mathematics PhD programme page on the “Apply” tab. 

Please state clearly the studentship project at you would like to apply for. 

Funding 

Full UK tuition fees and a tax-free stipend. This project is on offer in competition with a number of other projects for funding. This opportunity may be available with partial funding for overseas fees for exceptional applicants. However, funding for overseas students is limited and applicants are encouraged to find suitable funding themselves. Funded by the University of Surrey. 

Application enquiries 

For application enquiries, please contact Dr Matthew Turner (maths-phd@surrey.ac.uk ).