The Department of Mathematical Modelling, Statistics and Bioinformatics of the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering of Ghent University is divided into three research units
that have specific expertise in the fields of model based bioprocess analysis and optimisation (BIOMATH), the principles and practice of the extraction, representation and management
of knowledge by means of so-called intelligent techniques (KERMIT) and nonparametric and multivariate biostatistics (BIOSTAT).
BIOMATH
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The research conducted at the BIOMATH research unit focuses on the development and application of advanced techniques
for modelling, optimisation and control of bioprocesses in order to support required decisions in their design and operation.
A current trend in modelling of bioprocesses is the use of more complex models. This is driven by increased availability of
good quality experimental data (new and improved techniques), increased requirements of models (decreased model output
uncertainty, new output requirements like energy and C-footprint) and increased computational power. Complexity can be added
for description of unit processes to improve their design and operation. Here, thorough description of spatial and biomass heterogeneity
need attention. Complexity can also be added by integrating existing models to account for their interaction when optimising
the overall system. Here, a lot of attention has been devoted to coupling of models. However, a mismatch between submodels
often occurs which results in erroneous model calibration. The increase of model complexity and the problems related to it
are the current focus of research at BIOMATH. The current fields of application are environmental biotechnology,
fermentation technology, food- and feed biotechnology. However, they can span the entire range of bioprocesses. The research unit
is currently structured in 2 groups: integrated systems and sludge-water separation. An important asset of BIOMATH is the
availability of a small laboratory in which computer-controlled experimental set-ups are used to test and validate the developed
quantitative methods. For more elaborate experimental data, synergetic ties are sought with world-leading labs in experimental
data collection. Service provided by BIOMATH is: assisting in the development of mathematical models by interpreting experimental results and ^ combining this with in-depth knowledge of the processes by the domain experts. Visit the BIOMATH website for more information. |
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KERMIT
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The activities of KERMIT, the research unit "Knowledge-based Systems", are oriented towards the principles and practice of the Extraction,
Representation and Management of Knowledge by means of so-called Intelligent Techniques, drawn from the fields of artificial and computational intelligence,
operations research and natural computing. KERMIT aims at an optimal blend of fundamental and applied research. Fields of application are varying within
the applied bio-sciences.
The services provided by the research unit KERMIT are twofold: support for researchers within Ghent University who intend to apply intelligent techniques and projects with industrial partners and governmental institutions. Visit the KERMIT website for more information. |
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BIOSTAT
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The research in the Biostatistics group is concentrated on nonparametric and multivariate methods, with applications in several
research areas of the faculty. In particular, there is a large experience in the analysis of river water quality data, and environmental
data in general. Other application areas are: biotechnology, food technology, food safety, ... Fundamental research includes goodness-of-fit,
nonparametrical methods for the analysis of experimental data, and spatio-temporal modelling.
In the services provided by the BIOSTAT research unit, two types of activities may be distinguished: statistical consulting for MSc and PhD students and researchers within the faculty and projects for industry and governmental institutions. Most of the projects are related to the field of expertise of the research unit, but Experimental Design is also the topic of many projects. Visit the BIOSTAT website for more information. |
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