Mathematics and 21st Century Biology (BMSA)

The exponentially increasing amounts of biological data along with comparable advances in computing power are making possible the construction of quantitative, predictive biological systems’ models. To assist this development, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) asked the NRC to recommend mathematical research activities to enable more effective use of the large amounts of genomic and the structural and functional genomic information now being created. This report provides a broad, scientifically based view of the opportunities lying at the mathematical science and biology interface. It presents a review of past successes, an examination of opportunities at the various levels of biological systems, an analysis of cross-cutting themes, and recommendations to advance the mathematics-biology connection applicable to all relevant research funding agencies.

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