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Mathematical Approaches to Spatial Biology Symposium Brings International Researchers to Durham
Researchers from across the UK, Europe, and beyond gathered at Durham University over a week in September 2026 for the Mathematical Approaches to Spatial Biology Symposium.
Mathematical Approaches to Spatial Biology Symposium Brings International Researchers to Durham
Held at the Durham University Mountjoy Centre, the Mathematical Approaches to Spatial Biology Symposium brought together theoretical and applied mathematicians, biologists, and early-career researchers to discuss the growing importance of spatial and structural approaches in understanding biological processes.
The symposium was organised by Giulia Celora (Oxford), Valeria Giunta (Swansea University), Andrew Krause (Durham) and Denis Patterson (Durham), and featured a distinguished programme of invited speakers from leading research institutions, including a public lecture by Professor Philip Maini FRS (Oxford). Discussions covered a wide range of topics, including partial differential equation models, agent-based simulations, multiscale modelling, and emerging AI-enhanced approaches for analysing spatially structured biological systems. The programme also included dedicated discussion sessions designed to encourage collaboration and the exchange of ideas across disciplines.
A key theme of the symposium was fostering connections. Thanks to support from Durham University, the Durham University Biophysical Sciences Institute and the International Centre for Mathematical Sciences (ICMS), the event was able to support participation from early-career researchers and colleagues from low and middle-income countries, helping to create a diverse and inclusive research environment.
The symposium highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary research by showcasing how quantitative approaches can contribute to understanding biological mechanisms across scales, from cells and tissues to whole populations. The Biophysical Sciences Institute (BSI) was pleased to support the symposium and thanks the organisers for a successful and engaging week in Durham.
Photo above: Delegates attending the Mathematical Approaches to Spatial Biology Symposium at Durham University, September 2026.
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