Applied Mathematics Laboratory (AML)

A fundamental part of applied mathematics is modeling and the essence of good modeling is an appreciation of the process that is being modeled. With this principle in mind the Program has developed a unique experimental teaching laboratory (the Applied Mathematics Laboratory) in which students not only learn the principles of modeling but also have hands-on experimental experience with processes under consideration. These experiments, such as dendritic growth, liquid crystals, and oscillating chemical reactions, are all conducted at a high level and are chosen to illustrate a range of modeling principles and important mathematical techniques.

The Laboratory is offered as an advanced graduate level course consisting of lectures, experimental and theoretical projects, and class team projects. In addition to the technical training, the course emphasizes the importance of oral and written communications and team-work approaches to complex problems. The course was launched in the 1994/1995 academic year and the laboratory is supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation.