UBM: An Interdisciplinary Program in Mathematical Biology at New Mexico State University.

New Mexico State University, Las Cruces NM

Investigators

Abstract

Boecklen The investigator and colleagues develop an interdisciplinary program in mathematical biology at New Mexico State University that exposes biology and mathematics students to ongoing research at the interface of biology and mathematics, and that enhances the training of undergraduate students in mathematical biology. They develop new courses in mathematical biology, establish an intensive mentorship program that involves hands-on research experience (field, laboratory, and computers), and develop supplemental materials for undergraduate biology courses that promote mathematical skills and critical thinking. They generate three research projects suitable for undergraduate participation: endophyte mediation of tri-trophic interactions in Gambel's Oak, evolution of virulence in environmentally transmitted parasites, and a chemostat model for metapopulation dynamics. The project supports undergraduate training at New Mexico State University, an institution with large enrollments of Native American and Hispanic students and that is officially recognized as a Minority Serving Institution. In addition, the project integrates research and education within the mathematical and biological sciences and serves as a springboard for the development of an interdisciplinary program in mathematical biology. It contributes directly to the training of young scientists and mathematicians by supporting a graduate student and four undergraduate students over two years, and by interjecting cross-disciplinary elements into the biology and mathematics curricula. This project is jointly supported by the Biological Sciences directorate, the Education and Human Resources directorate, and the Office of Multidisciplinary Activities and the Division of Mathematical Sciences in the Mathematical and Physical Sciences directorate.