How mathematical modelling could protect whales and defeat cancer
In short: From protecting marine life to tackling life-threatening diseases, mathematics is moving beyond the chalkboard. By creating complex models of the real world, researchers are gaining vital insights into how natural and biological systems function, offering new ways to intervene and change the course of global challenges.
Mathematical modelling serves as a bridge between abstract equations and the complexities of the real world. As demonstrated by Professor Chris Budd, a specialist in applied mathematics at the University of Bath, these models allow scientists to simulate how systems work and, crucially, how they might be altered to solve modern crises. Two of the most pressing applications involve the conservation of whale populations and the medical fight against cancer.
The power of this approach lies in its ability to handle nonlinear problems—systems where small changes can lead to disproportionately large effects. Professor Budd, who has served as the Gresham Professor of Geometry from 2016 to 2020, focuses his research on these intricate, interdisciplinary challenges. His work extends into many sectors, including the energy, aerospace, and food industries, as well as climate modelling through networks like CliMathNet.
Beyond theoretical work, these mathematical tools have practical, real-world impacts. For instance, Budd's algorithms have been integrated into the Met Office's operational weather forecasting code, significantly improving accuracy and earning a Knowledge Transfer Award. Whether it is predicting weather patterns or simulating biological processes, the goal of mathematical modelling is to provide the clarity needed to tackle the world's most significant hurdles.
By translating physical and biological phenomena into computational frameworks, mathematicians can test interventions in a virtual space before applying them to the real world. This methodology is essential for managing complex systems where direct experimentation might be too slow, too expensive, or too dangerous to perform.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Can Maths Save The Whales and Cure Cancer? - Chris Budd
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