Online

Trinity, Luke Thomas

Complex Systems and Data Science

2020

M.S.

I first broadly define the study of complex systems, identifying language to describe and characterize mechanisms of such systems which is applicable across disciplines. An overview of methods is provided, including the description of a software development methodology which defines how a combination of computer science, statistics, and mathematics are applied to specified domains. This work describes strategies to facilitate timely completion of robust and adaptable projects which vary in complexity and scope. A biosecurity informatics pipeline is outlined, which is an abstraction useful in organizing the analysis of biological data from cells. This is followed by specific applications of complex systems study to the fields of animal biosecurity and genetic expression. I provide evidence that social cues need to be considered by livestock facility managers in order to increase disease-resiliency of agricultural systems. I also identify significant changes in genetic expression from recent experiments which are advancing the frontiers of regenerative medicine. Areas of future work are discussed including issues related to agriculture and water quality, as well as studies of human behavior and risk perception using experimental gaming simulations.