Mathematical, Computational and Systems Biology

Summary/Abstract The landscape of biomedical research is changing at a dizzying pace. Revolutions in single cell ‘omics, high resolution imaging, computational power, and AI-assisted prediction are rapidly propelling us into a world in which the hypotheses and conclusions in a large fraction of biological and biomedical science closely depend on the computer-aided interpretation of massive datasets. The workforce development challenges associated with the transition to “big data”-infused science are great, requiring a much more interdisciplinary and more quantitative approach to training. This application requests support for the renewal of a pre-doctoral training program that produces Ph.D.s with sufficient skills in fundamental biology, mathematical and computational modeling, and data science to attack these challenges head on. The program is built upon a free- standing, interdisciplinary Ph.D. program that has been developed and refined over the past 17 years and offers training at the interface between the biological sciences and mathematics, computer science, physics and engineering. Ten pre-doctoral trainee slots are requested, for appointments intended to last two years each. Highlights of the proposed program include an extensive didactic curriculum; a focus on critical thinking skills; an emphasis on collaboration and collaborative learning; close mentoring, opportunities to develop multiple career skills; and active student involvement. The 36 program faculty members come from 28 different departments in seven schools at the University of California, Irvine, and conduct research on diverse topics within biology and medicine. The program enjoys strong campus support, and an administrative and intellectual home within the UCI Center for Complex Biological Systems, a campus-wide research unit with a long-standing commitment to promoting interdisciplinary education at all academic levels. The proposed program will prepare trainees for careers in biomedical research, teaching, and communication in both academic and non-academic settings.