Academic Program

The School of Mathematical Sciences cooperates with Keck Graduate Institue of Applied Life Sciences to offer this joint PhD program.

Computational and systems biology are developing fields that aim to understand biological systems through mathematical analysis, numerical simulation, data collection, refinement and improvement of models based on comparison with experimental data, and the development of theories to enhance our understanding of biological systems.  Fields of modern genetics (including genomics and proteomics) and molecular and cell biology are the current focus of research in systems biology.  Myriad computational tools including deterministic and stochastic modeling, Monte Carlo simulations, datamining, and data analysis are needed in approaching these problems.  Applied mathematical topics including nonlinear dynamical systems (discrete and continuous), partial differential equations, probability, statistics, linear algebra, network theory, numerical analysis, control theory, asymptotic and perturbation methods provide some of the fundamental tools needed to carry out the requisite modeling and analysis.

The joint doctoral program in computational and systems biology trains scientists, mathematicians, engineers, and quantitative biologists via a combination of coursework, independent study, optional laboratory rotations, and individual mentoring to provide a strong grounding in modern biology, genomics, and mathematical methods needed for modeling and computational work.

Degree Requirements

The joint degree program requires 72 units of graduate level coursework: 24 units are taken at CGU, 24 units are taken at KGI, and 24 units can potentially be transferred in from master’s level coursework.  No research tools are required.