Dr. Jaap Kaandorp, Section Computational Science, University of Amsterdam.
Co-referee: Prof. Johan van Leeuwen, Experimental Zoology Group, Wageningen University
Corals have a relatively simple body plan and a relatively simple developmental regulatory network. They are therefore ideal organisms for a study of the principles of the dynamics of morphogenesis. We investigate the physical translation of the genetic information into a growth form by linking computational models at different spatio-temporal scales: gene regulation and cellular level, calcification, respiration, photosynthesis, growth of the coral skeleton and the impact of the physical environment. The predicted growth forms of (scleractinian) corals are tested against experimental observations. The simulated objects are very similar to actual corals and we can approximate several aspects of gene regulation.
Zodiac academic lectures are an initiative of the Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University.
On every first Tuesday of the month, an invited speaker will present a topic related to animal sciences.
Speaker and topic will, and are meant to, provoke discussion among the audience of staff, postdocs, PhD and MSc students, and guests.
Drinks after the presentation and discussion.
Calendar 2008: 1 Apr ABG, 13 May ANU, 3 Jun ADP