Summer School 2025 Tracks

Track 1: Modelling 101 Overview Introduction to infectious disease modelling concepts and basic mathematical frameworks. Prerequisites basic R understanding of ODEs Course Content This track is the introduction to mathematical modelling for those who are new to or have limited experience in the field.

Track 2: Simulation Overview Hands-on experience with simulation techniques and numerical methods. Prerequisites basic R understanding of ODEs Course Content This track focuses on stochastic simulation models, allowing participants to study how randomness impacts on the dynamics of outbreaks.

Track 3: Inference Overview Advanced statistical methods for parameter estimation and model calibration. Prerequisites Any form of model fitting experience in which you tweak a model to better align with data (even if in casual or nonstandard ways) At least know the concept of “likelihood” Course Content This track focuses on model fitting / parameter estimation approaches: once you have your model and data, how you should adjust the parameters so that the model best represent your data.

Track 4: AI Overview Applications of machine learning in infectious disease modelling. Prerequisites Basic understanding of epidemiology and infectious disease concepts Undergraduate-level statistics (descriptive statistics, regression analysis) Basic programming experience (preferably one of Python, R or Julia) Some sort of exposure to computational statistics or computational mathematical modelling or machine learning Course Content This course explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and infectious disease modeling, equipping participants with practical skills to leverage AI in epidemiology, tropical medicine, and public health contexts.

Track 5: Specialised topics Overview Advanced topics in specific disease areas and modelling approaches. Prerequisites Have taken Modelling 101 or Simulations (or have some equivalent modelling experiences) Course Content This track will explore how core modelling skills can be applied to specialised topics, including modelling within-host infection dynamics, evaluating the cost-effectiveness of interventions like non-pharmaceutical measures and vaccines, and incorporating space into infectious disease outbreaks.