08 May 2009

Seminar By Professor Mike Holcombe

Seminar: X Marks The Spot – a journey around my Alma Mater.

15 May 2009, 16:00, G03 Jessop's West


I began here in mathematics and over the years became interested in computer science which led me back to Sheffield and, over time, I have engaged in research collaborations in all of our Faculties. The talk will describe some of these and will provide an insight into software engineering and software testing, computational modelling of a variety of biological systems, models of large scale economic systems and many other areas where the common element is their complexity and the purpose is to understand these subjects better and to make credible predictions based on the latest computing techniques. A single, unusual, theoretical insight forms the underlying continuity for this work. My thesis is that modern computer science should be at the heart of the University since it can support all manner of academic subjects. I will also describe some of the novel teaching initiatives I have been involved with. I will conclude with some comments on the University’s Research and Teaching strategies and how these need to develop in the 21st Century if we are to become a truly great university.