Mathematics inspired by biology : lectures given at the 1st session of the Centro Internazionale Matematico Estivo (C.I.M.E.) held in Martina Franca, Italy, June 13-20, 1997 / V. Capasso, O. Diekmann

The aim of the course was to demonstrate how mathematical problems, ideas, methods and results arise from attempts to describe, analyse and understand the world of living systems. A wide spectrum of mathematical and biological subjects was covered. The intention, to give to beginning researchers a stimulating impression of the current state-of-the-art in a selected number of fields, is echoed in the present lecture notes.

In this book you find the written account of five series of six lectures each. The common theme is the role of structure in shaping transient and ultimate dynamics. But the type of structure ranges from spatial (Hadeler and Maini in the deterministic setting. Durrett in the stochastic setting) to physiological (Diekmann) and order (Smith). Each contribution sketches the present state of affairs while, by including some wishful thinking, pointing at open problems that deserve attention. No doubt this book will be superseded before many years have passed, but most likely it will itself catalyse the process by which our knowledge and understanding is enhanced and extended. (Zentralblatt)