Modeling Biological Systems
Undergraduate Certificate in Modeling Biological Systems
The Interdisciplinary Undergraduate Certificate in Modeling Biological Systems (MBS) aims to provide rigorous biological, mathematical, and computational training and an intensive independent research experience for Duke students. The overarching mission of the MBS program is to facilitate intellectual growth in our students by mentoring the development of sound reasoning skills towards complex biological models.
Greater perception of life processes has paved the way for rapid development of revolutionary mathematical tools and computational and statistical techniques. The MBS program intertwines fact-based instruction with broader research questions to facilitate a greater understanding of both the science and its impact.
With the constant development of exciting, innovative tools and analytical techniques, modeling has emerged as a dynamic field for students. The MBS curriculum will foster student involvement from multiple disciplinary areas with an extensive electives list and a range of research offerings. Students are active participants and receive mentoring and instruction from faculty in biology, engineering, mathematics, statistics and computer science. The MBS certificate incorporates techniques and methodologies used in the advancement of experimental learning and progressive research. Embracing the educational philosophy of Duke University’s Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, the MBS students will learn "to generate, evaluate, integrate and apply knowledge" of mathematical and computational techniques to biological problems.
The goal of the MBS certificate is to:
- Broaden students' exposure to interdisciplinary scientific collaboration
- Encourage students to participate in independent research projects at an early stage of their academic careers.
- Deepen training in cutting edge methods and tools
- Facilitate the progression and transition from undergraduate work to research at the graduate level.
Areas of particular interest include gene regulatory networks, physiological networks, inter and intra-cellular communications as well as the description of protein structure and interactions.
The MBS program is housed within the Duke Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy (IGSP). The IGSP is built upon the explicit understanding that scientific advances require research carried out in the interdisciplinary space at the intersection of the traditional biomedical, quantitative, computational, and social sciences. Further, this research must be framed within a thorough discussion of its potential societal impacts.
Students wishing to enroll in the certificate program must complete a brief registration form. Course choices should be made in consultation with the certificate program director. To make an appointment, please contact Prof. David Kraines, Program Director.