Probability for Life Sciences: Understanding Randomness, Noise, and Risk
Course Description
How do we know if a new drug is effective? Why are genetic results from 23andMe given as percentages? What makes a medical study trustworthy, or misleading?
Questions in biology and medicine are fundamentally shaped by randomness: genetic mutations arise by chance, populations fluctuate unpredictably, and medical tests yield uncertain results. This course equips students with the mathematical tools to quantify uncertainty, interpret data critically, and recognize common statistical pitfalls that plague scientific literature and public health communication.
You will explore probability distributions that model biological phenomena, from the binomial distribution describing genetic inheritance to the normal distribution governing measurement error. Through the lens of Bayesian reasoning, you will learn how to update beliefs based on evidence – a critical skill for interpreting diagnostic tests, evaluating experimental results, and understanding scientific consensus.
Beyond computation, this course emphasizes critical thinking. Through hands-on data analysis and visualization exercises using real biological datasets, you will develop both technical skills and the skeptical mindset necessary for scientific literacy.
For the final project, students will select a real publication and provide a detailed critique of its methodology and conclusions.
Academic Interest
Biological Sciences
Application Materials
A complete application includes a transcript, two short essays, a letter of recommendation, writing sample, application fee, and a submitted parent confirmation. If you are seeking need-based financial aid, you must indicate that in your application before it is submitted. Please refer to the Application Instructions for complete details.
Instructor(s)
Dmitry Kondrashov
Cost
$4,980