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NC3Rs Mathematics Study Group – Applying Mathematics to 3Rs Problems

April 15-18, 2013
Central London

Mathematical modelling is an important tool for solving biological questions and providing new insights which benefit science and medicine. Increasingly, mathematics is being applied to provide new ways of reducing the use of animals in research and development. To further facilitate this, the NC3Rs is providing access to mathematicians through the EPSRC-funded Mathematics in Medicine Study Group.

The Workshop:

In partnership with the Mathematics in Medicine Study Group we are organising a workshop to connect mathematicians and biologists with the aim of solving problems or questions which if addressed could help to replace or reduce the use of animals. For further information on Mathematics in Medicine Study Groups, examples of previous problems brought, work undertaken and new outcomes generated, please see Maths in Medicine webpage.

Problem Submission:

We are currently seeking proposals for biological problems or questions which could be addressed at the workshop. If you are interested in participating please submit a proposal by 14 January 2013. Proposals should be no longer than two A4 pages and should include:

• A brief background on the problem
• Details of the problem itself
• Any available data for informing possible mathematical models
• Questions you would like to see answered
• The potential impact on animal use
• Any relevant references

Four proposals will be selected to take forward to the workshop. Proposals will be assessed using the following criteria:

• Scientific merit
• Potential impact on animal use
• Amenability to mathematical modelling

Problems do not require any prior mathematical modelling, indeed problems or areas which have received no mathematical modelling attention to date are strongly encouraged. For further information on presenting problems to the Study Group please visit Maths in Medicine webpage.

Those considering bringing a problem to the workshop will need to ensure they or relevant members of their team are available for its entirety to enable appropriate progress to be made on each problem.

Proposals for problems for the Study Group to consider at the workshop should be submitted to the NC3Rs via email.

Key Dates:

Further queries should be directed, in the first instance to Anthony Holmes at the NC3Rs.