Training School: "Dynamical Systems and Biological Information: Exploring the Next Frontier"

This school is designed to provide essential insights into bridging the general theory of dynamical systems with the informational content of genetic sequences, both coding and non-coding. This innovative and groundbreaking research direction opens up exciting opportunities for young scientists to launch or enhance their careers by engaging in interdisciplinary research at the frontier of Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Engineering.

The program will offer a foundational introduction to the theory of dynamical systems, followed by a focused exploration of its potential connections to the origins and structures of genetic sequences. Specific topics include:

• Coding Sequences and the Genetic Code: Investigating how dynamical systems theory relates to the evolution and organization of coding sequences within the genetic code.

• Coding and Non-Coding Sequences: Examining their role in error correction, computation, and their implications for understanding biological information systems.

• The Mystery of Absent Sequences: Using the non-existence of certain genetic sequences as a practical framework to discuss theoretical connections between dynamical systems and genomic patterns.

Additionally, the program will delve into reservoir computing as a bridge between machine learning, dynamical systems, and genomic sequences. To complement the theoretical discussions, participants will gain hands-on experience with bioinformatics approaches to analyzing absent sequences and uncovering theoretical patterns amidst the vast biological data generated from sequencing efforts across diverse ecosystems.

This training school is an exceptional opportunity to gain cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills while contributing to a rapidly evolving field with significant interdisciplinary impact.

Dates: 12 to 14 March 2025

Venue: University of Évora, Colégio Espírito Santo

Local Organizer: Clara Grácio, Rosário Laureano, Sara Fernandes, Luís Mário Lopes