Topics in Mathematical Biology (Lecture Notes on Mathematical Modelling in the Life Sciences)

This book analyzes the impact of quiescent phases on biological models. Quiescence arises, for example, when moving individuals stop moving, hunting predators take a rest, infected individuals are isolated, or cells enter the quiescent compartment of the cell cycle. In the first chapter of Topics in Mathematical Biology general principles about coupled and quiescent systems are derived, including results on shrinking periodic orbits and stabilization of oscillations via quiescence. In subsequent chapters classical biological models are presented in detail and challenged by the introduction of quiescence. These models include delay equations, demographic models, age structured models, Lotka-Volterra systems, replicator systems, genetic models, game theory, Nash equilibria, evolutionary stable strategies, ecological models, epidemiological models, random walks and reaction-diffusion models. In each case we find new and interesting results such as stability of fixed points and/or periodic orbits, excitability of steady states, epidemic outbreaks, survival of the fittest, and speeds of invading fronts. 

The textbook is intended for graduate students and researchers in mathematical biology who have a solid background in linear algebra, differential equations and dynamical systems. Readers can find gems of unexpected beauty within these pages, and those who knew K.P. (as he was often called) well will likely feel his presence and hear him speaking to them as they read.

K.P. Hadeler (1936 - 2017) started studying mathematics and biology at the University of Hamburg in 1956. The interdisciplinary field of mathematical biology had not yet been invented and he was a pioneer in bringing those two subjects together and helping shape an emergent discipline. Hadeler held professorships at the Universities of Erlangen and Niemegen in the 60's, and in 1971 he obtained a Lehrstuhl für Biomathematik at the University of Tübingen. He published more than 200 research articles and was a co-founder of the flagship journal, the Journal of Mathematical Biology. His research has inspired generations of young researchers and Prof. Hadeler was active in research up until his death in early 2017. The textbook Topics in Mathematical Biology was his final passion, and it is unfortunate that he was unable to witness its publication. However, we feel it is a fitting legacy for a true innovator.