Emergent behaviour arises throughout the natural world. From the detailed structure and function of human organs to the flocking of birds, complex behaviour emerges from seemingly simple interactions between individual organisms. However, it is difficult to predict the emergent behaviour of a population from knowledge about the behaviour of an individual organism.
Understanding the mathematical connections between individual and emergent behaviour allows for the prediction of how changes in individual behaviour will result in changes in the population. Dr Johnston employs this approach to investigate problems throughout biology, from the challenge of using nanotechnology to deliver anti-cancer drugs to tumours, to the question of how increasing human activities in the ocean are impacting the abilities of whales to navigate and communicate.
Dr Johnston develops mathematical techniques that reveal the connection between individual behaviour to the emergent properties of a population. This approach highlights the beauty of mathematics: the mathematical principles valid for predicting the spread of tumour cells are the same as those used to describe a migrating pod of whales.
Dr Johnston applies these mathematical techniques to solve problems throughout biology. In particular, he is interested in identifying potential new tumour treatment options, and informing public policy aimed at reducing underwater noise pollution to protect marine animals.
2024
Biology, Mathematical Models, Population Models, Marine Life, Medicine