Time-dependent continuum models, described by partial differential equations (PDEs), arise in numerous applications in the natural sciences. Where the temporal/prediction aspect of such systems is important, it is useful to view them as infinite-dimensional dynamical systems, thereby making them accessible to the tools of dynamical systems theory. The Computational Dynamics (CD) group engages in fundamental research on dynamical system techniques: computational and stochastic methods, and applied analysis of differential equations. Specific topics include geometric and stochastic numerical methods for PDEs, derivation of stochastic models from data, and uncertainty modelling.
Research in CD is largely motivated by applications and contributes primarily to the CWI strategic themes earth and life sciences through research on climate variability, atmosphere and ocean sciences, cloud convection modeling, phytoplankton dynamics (population dynamics, biochemistry, and flow effects), and vegetation patterns. Energy science is closely related to earth sciences, and CDis increasingly active in problems from the energy sector, within CWI’s Computational Energy Systems (CES) project. Furthermore, research on stochastic modelling of data contributes to the strategic theme the data explosion, and research on the patterns of sand deposits is important for shipping and thus societal logistics.

Staff:

Emeriti and adjunct staff: