EPIB 638. Mathematical Modeling of Infectious Diseases.
Credits: 3
Offered by: Epidemiology and Biostatistics (Graduate Studies)
Terms offered: Winter 2027
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Description
Mathematical models of infectious diseases –computer simulations of epidemics–enable detailed analyses and understanding of factors affecting the distribution of infections/diseases in populations and now play a key role in policy making. Covered topics include: short-term dynamics of infections (R0), compartmental models, stochastic models (including agent-based), contact patterns and heterogeneity, and Bayesian model calibration. The learning objectives are: 1)
recognize research questions that can be addressed using modeling; 2) develop, parameterize, calibrate, and analyze simple infectious disease models in R; and 3) critically appraise scientific modeling papers.
- Prerequisite(s): EPIB 621 or permission of the instructor
- Restrictions: Not open to students who have taken EPIB 676 when topic was "Mathematical Models of Infectious Diseases".
- This is an intermediate-level quantitative course. Previous courses in calculus and biostatistics are recommended (in doubt, contact the instructor prior to registration). A working knowledge of the R statistical software (or equivalent) is mandatory (data structures, function, loop, etc.).