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CB1020 Project in Mathematical Modelling 3.0 credits

The course will provide (i) a practical experience with the project work form, (ii) a deepened understanding of mathematical methods in biotechnology, and (iii) basic programming skills targeted toward mathematical modeling.

Mathematical models are used to rationalize and better understand a wide range of phenomena in biology and biotechnology. The course focuses on two different approaches to conduct mathematical modeling namely by means of (i) ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and (ii) agent-based models (ABMs).

In principle, the programming language in which we implement any given model is of minor importance per se. However, it makes good sense for every engineer to be well trained in using at least one versatile and generic programming language. Arguably, Python is a good choice to fill this role and it will therefore be the language of choice in this course.

Information per course offering

Choose semester and course offering to see current information and more about the course, such as course syllabus, study period, and application information.

Termin

Information for Autumn 2025 Start 25 Aug 2025 programme students

Course location

AlbaNova

Duration
25 Aug 2025 - 12 Jan 2026
Periods
P1 (1.5 hp), P2 (1.5 hp)
Pace of study

10%

Application code

51055

Form of study

Normal Daytime

Language of instruction

Swedish

Course memo
Course memo is not published
Number of places

Places are not limited

Target group
No information inserted
Planned modular schedule
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Schedule
Schedule is not published

Contact

Examiner
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Course coordinator
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Teachers
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Course syllabus as PDF

Please note: all information from the Course syllabus is available on this page in an accessible format.

Course syllabus CB1020 (Autumn 2024–)
Headings with content from the Course syllabus CB1020 (Autumn 2024–) are denoted with an asterisk ( )

Content and learning outcomes

Course contents

The course aims to train abilities that are important for working in project form. The course provides basic knowledge of mathematical modeling and its role and use for biotechnology applications. The course provides basic knowledge in structured programming for the implementation of mathematical models. The course projects are interdisciplinary, targeting areas that are close to biotechnology. 

The course includes:

  • A discussion of the role of modeling in biotechnology
  • The application of project management tools
  • The design and implementation of a project in biotechnology with focus on mathematical modeling.
  • Literature search and reference management
  • Self-reflection based on group dynamics and processes
  • Report writing
  • Oral presentation

Intended learning outcomes

After completion of the course the student shall have

Skills and abilities to:

  • Plan and execute a simulation project in a group of 4-6 members and within agreed timeframes.
  • Identify relevant information and critically assess and use it to design and execute the project.
  • Implement a basic mathematical model in a computer program
  • Demonstrate ability to present the aims, implementation, and results of the project in written and oral forms

Values and approaches to:

  • Combine scientific disciplines within the project. 
  • Evaluate group work and the individual’s own work effort towards the common goal, including the use of tools for project management, and the ability to stimulate self and group performance.
  • Demonstrate a good ability to account for the knowledge, process, results and conclusions of the project work in a written report and oral presentation.

Literature and preparations

Specific prerequisites

SF1625 Calculus in One Variable, SF1525 Basic Course in Numerical Methods, BB1000 Programming in Python.

Equipment

No information inserted

Literature

No information inserted

Examination and completion

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

Grading scale

P, F

Examination

  • PRO1 - Project work, 2.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
  • UPP1 - Self reflection, 1.0 credits, grading scale: P, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination

No information inserted

Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination

No information inserted

Examiner

Ethical approach

  • All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
  • In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
  • In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

Further information

Course room in Canvas

Registered students find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas. A link to the course room can be found under the tab Studies in the Personal menu at the start of the course.

Offered by

Main field of study

Technology

Education cycle

First cycle

Add-on studies

No information inserted

Additional regulations

There are courses that have all or part of the same content: BB1220 Projects in Biotechnology