Introduction to Complex Systems
Opal: Link here.
Time (Lecture): Mondays and Tuesdays, 18:30 – 20:00
Time (Seminar): Wednesdays and Thursdays, 18:30 – 20:00
Time (Lab Course): Jan. 5th - Jan. 15th, 2026
Location: S7A-204
Module: M0500-31W2 (Molecular Biology and Biotechnology)
Language: English
Assessment: presentation, written exam, and participation in the lab course
Description:
This course offers an overview and basic understanding of complex dynamic phenomena in biological, physical and social systems. The focus is on biological systems but with a particular emphasis on how phenomena observed in biological systems are related to systems outside of biology. For example: Are the dynamic patterns observed in flocking birds and schooling fish related to pedestrian dynamics, or political polarization? What are the underlying principles?
Complexity science is about unraveling these underlying principles that drive a complex phenomenon and trying to construct models based on these underlying principles that can reproduce the basic properties of a system with as few ingredients as possible. Complex systems come in different flavors and can be associated with different fundamental phenomena and concepts, each of which will be covered in the course.
Most of these concepts and phenomena occur and are applied across a broad range of fields. Here’s a list of those that will be covered in the course:
- Chaotic Dynamics
- Synchronization
- Pattern Formation
- Critical Phenomena & Tipping Points
- Growth Processes
- Collective Behavior
- Complex Networks
- Fractals & Self-Similarity
- Cooperative Systems
The lecture will also cover a number of basic theoretical modeling methods, analysis tools and techniques that are required to understand and appreciate the richness and beauty of complex systems.
