BPML: Patterns: beautiful and dangerous - Dr Paul Roberts

This lecture will be given by Dr Paul Roberts.

Nature is filled with patterns. From animal coat markings, through vascular networks, to the flocking of starlings. As we look upon these patterns, it is natural to ask ‘How did they form? Why this pattern rather than another one?’ Patterns do not occur without reason, rather, they are the result of physical, chemical and biological processes, governed by the laws of nature. As such, patterns are significant, they give us clues as to the processes which caused them. Mathematics is a powerful tool which enables us to piece together these clues, revealing the significance of the pattern before us. In this talk, we will explore how mathematics can be used to detect cancer from cell images, and to explain and predict patterns of vision loss, learning that, while often beautiful, patterns can also be dangerous.

The Birmingham Popular Maths Lecture series runs in the Watson Building (School of Mathematics) on the last Wednesday of each month, arriving from 18:30 onwards for a 19:00 start. We will also be showing the lecture live on Zoom for those that are unable to attend the lecture. 

To watch the lecture on Zoom you will need to register using the link above. If you plan on attending the lecture in person there is no need to register. Please note that attendees in the lecture theatre will be given priority for the Q&A, but some questions will be taken from Zoom.

The Birmingham Popular Mathematics Lectures are open to all members of the public and the University who are interested in the study of Mathematics. They are particularly suitable for those studying Mathematics at A Level and we also welcome advanced GCSE students. Young people are welcome on their own, with parents or with a school group.