Learning physical biology via modeling and simulation: A new course and textbook for science and engineering undergraduates

To a large extent, undergraduate physical-science curricula remain firmly rooted in pencil-and-paper calculation, despite the fact that most research is done with computers. To a large extent, undergraduate \emph{life}-science curricula remain firmly rooted in descriptive approaches, despite the fact that much current research involves quantitative modeling. Not only does our pedagogy not reflect current reality; it also creates a spurious barrier between the fields, reinforcing the narrow silos that prevent students from connecting them. \\ I'll describe an intermediate-level course on ``Physical Models of Living Systems.'' The prerequisite is first-year university physics and calculus. The course is a response to rapidly growing interest among undergraduates in a broad range of science and engineering majors. \\ Students acquire several research skills that are often not addressed in traditional undergraduate courses: $\bullet$Basic modeling skills; $\bullet$Probabilistic modeling skills; $\bullet$Data analysis methods; $\bullet$Computer programming using a general-purpose platform like MATLAB or Python; $\bullet$Pulling datasets from the Web for analysis; $\bullet$Data visualization; $\bullet$Dynamical systems, particularly feedback control.