the opportunities to apply Control and Dynamical Systems (CDS) concepts are exploding, particularly in scientific fields. New technology is allowing us to explore complex biological systems—from cells to insects to ecosystems—at levels that were unimagined just a few years ago, and the role of feedback as a mechanism for managing uncertainty is a central feature. In the physical sciences, applications include geophysical systems—where multiscale, dynamic analysis is required to understand complex phenomena such as forest fires and earthquakes.
In pursuit of these opportunitues, the goals of the Center are to:
(1) Develop a new generation of modeling, analysis, and synthesis methods for control and dynamical systems targeted at applications in the natural sciences.
(2) Generate new levels of understanding of complex phenomena in science and technology, initially focused on biological and physical systems, through the application of CDS tools.
(3) Develop new courses, textbooks, experiments, and pedagogy to provide students with the CDS concepts and tools required to address a broad collection of problems in science and technology.
(4) Develop an international alliance of educational institutions that will co-develop CDS research and educational programs and provide internship opportunities for US students.
(5) Improve the representation and retention of women and underrepresented minorities in graduate study and faculty positions in engineering, math, and science positions.
(6) Develop new approaches in math, science, and engineering education, science communications and public awareness through CDS-motivated applications.
We anticiapte that the Center will change the research and educational landscape in CDS and have significant impact on science and engineering. It will produce a generation of researchers in CDS with competence in research areas that will drive the future of the field, and a generation of researchers in biology and physics who use the tools from CDS as central elements in their research.
