John McNamara (mathematical biologist) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John McNamara
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| Nationality | English |
| Education | Oxford University University of Sussex |
| Known for | Behavioural ecology Mathematical biology |
| Awards | (with Alasdair Houston) ASAB Medal (2013) Weldon Memorial Prize (2014) Sewall Wright Award (2018) Frink Medal (2018) |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Biology Ecology Mathematics |
| Institutions | University of Bristol |
| Thesis | Stability of the inner horizon of the Reissner-Nordstrõm and Kerr black hole models (1977) |
| Doctoral advisor | Roger Penrose |
John M. McNamara is an English scientist. He is a professor who studies both mathematics and biology. He works at the University of Bristol.
Professor McNamara is known for his work in behavioural ecology. This field looks at how animals make decisions. He also works in mathematical biology. This means he uses math to understand living things. In 2012, he became a member of the Royal Society. This is a very important group of scientists. He has also won several major awards for his research.
Contents
What is Mathematical Biology?
Mathematical biology is a field that uses math to solve problems in biology. Scientists like John McNamara create mathematical models. These models help them understand how living systems work. For example, they can study how diseases spread. They can also look at how animals behave.
How Math Helps Us Understand Life
Using math helps scientists make predictions. It can show patterns that are hard to see otherwise. For instance, math can help explain why animals choose certain foods. It can also show how they react to danger. This helps us learn more about the natural world.
Studying Animal Behavior
John McNamara's main focus is behavioural ecology. This area of science explores why animals act the way they do. It looks at how animals make choices to survive and reproduce.
Why Animals Make Choices
Animals constantly make choices. They decide where to find food. They choose where to live. They also pick mates. These choices affect their chances of survival. Professor McNamara uses math to understand these complex decisions.
Examples of Animal Decisions
Think about a bird looking for food. Should it stay in one spot? Or should it fly to a new place? These are the kinds of questions behavioural ecologists ask. John McNamara's models help explain these choices. His work shows how animals try to get the best outcome. This is often about getting enough food or staying safe.
Awards and Recognition
John McNamara has received many important awards. These awards show how much his work is valued.
- In 2013, he won the ASAB Medal. He shared this award with Alasdair Houston.
- In 2014, he received the Weldon Memorial Prize.
- In 2018, he was given the Sewall Wright Award. This award came from the American Society of Naturalists.
- Also in 2018, he received the Frink Medal.
These awards highlight his important contributions. His research has helped us better understand biology.
Education and Career
John McNamara studied at two well-known universities. He attended Oxford University. He also studied at the University of Sussex. After his studies, he became a professor. He now teaches at the University of Bristol.
His work combines different areas of science. He brings together ideas from biology, ecology, and mathematics. This helps him explore new ideas about life.
