This course will prepare students to apply quantitative techniques to the analysis of experimental data and the modeling of biological systems. To emphasize both practical and theoretical skills, the material will be presented whenever possible in a hands-on workshop style, and the completion of several projects by the students will be required. Topics include: practical aspects of data formatting and management; communication of quantitative concepts (verbal, graphical and mathematical); a review of statistics, with emphasis on the selection of appropriate statistical tests; the use of modern software packages; the interpretation of results; the formulation, evaluation and analysis of mathematical models of biological function, with an emphasis on linear and non-linear regression, determination of model parameters; and the critical comparison of alternative models with regard to over-parameterization. The formal components will introduce (and demystify) ordinary and partial differential equations and basic principles of non-linear dynamics, in order to enable quantitative modeling in biological arenas such as neural function, enzyme kinetics, cardiac dynamics and signaling pathways. Additional special topics will also be presented (e.g., control theory, machine learning, information theory, and image analysis) and their application will be illustrated with ongoing research in the laboratories of participating faculty.
Non-PBS students may now satisfy the Quantitative Biology course requirement by taking IDPT 9001 01, Applied Quantitative Techniques for Biological Sciences. PBS students should register for PBSB 5005 01, Quantitative Understanding in Bio 1.
If any non-PBS student including students in the Tri-Institutional programs wishes to enroll, please email Dr. Lucy Skrabanek to request permission to enroll.
There is a new course this Fall substituting the traditional Quant Bio course. The new course is entitled Applied Quantitative Techniques for the Biological Sciences. This course will be delivered to students of all programs including Neuro, Pharmacology, IMP, and BCMB.
Dates: August 23, 2021- October 22, 2021
Day(s)/Time: Tuesday and Thursday, 5:30pm – 7:00pm
Syllabus: 
2021_applied_quantitative_techniques_for_biologicial_sciences_syllabus.pdf
If you are interested in enrolling in the course please contact: Chun-Jun Guo
