Dynamical systems have long been an important tool to model and understand biological phenomena, for instance in relation to neuronal, cardiac, and other physiological processes. In this framework, finding a sound balance between model complexity, biological plausibility and computational efficiency is a challenge of utmost importance, in order to not only advance our knowledge in the field, but also to address contemporary problems and needs in the corresponding fields of high medical and societal importance. In this mini-symposium, we present four recent works in the broad field of mathematical neuroscience; namely, each speaker presents their contribution in the advancement of one of the following topics: synaptic transmission; complex multi-timescale oscillations of membrane potentials; firing dynam- ics in pyramidal neurons and interneurons; and attractors and waves in networks of integrate-and-fire neurons. During the talks, the variety of tools and the methodologies which have been used to reach the novel analytical results on the aforementioned models will be discussed, with emphasis on open questions that emerged during this process and their relations to the behaviour of the corresponding biological systems.
Main organiser and coordinator of series of presentations from MSc and PhD students situated across various Universities and whose work is within the broad area of dynamical systems. The aim of the initiative was to provide a forum for the participants to present their progress in an informal setting and to exchange knowledge and ideas in the field.
The Edinburgh SIAM-IMA student chapter hosted a week-long student study group with industry supported by the Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences, the Edinburgh Mathematical Society (EMS), the Glasgow Mathematical Journal Trust (GMJT), the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM), and the Institute for Mathematics and its Applications (IMA). The event offered: 1. An opportunity for graduate students to apply mathematics in an industrial setting, 2. A chance for collaboration with students from different institutions and from a wide range of research areas, and 3. Essential skills training in communication and presentation skills. This event was based on the format used for the established modelling camps and study groups, and offered an opportunity to work on real life industrial problems.
PhD alumni from UoE and HWU were invited to talk about their industrial experience, ranging from PhD internships to start-up companies and corporate positions. Examples include alumni who had been involved with the Edinburgh SIAM-IMA Student Chapter during their studies.
An afternoon of talks from current PhD students at Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt to give an idea of research in mathematics. The event will be of interest to undergraduate students that are inclined to pursue a PhD in the future, but also to anyone who is curious about what goes on in the department outside of teaching. The event could also provide a suggestion of possible areas for a research project for final year students.