About the Collection

Cellular Biophysics and Modeling brings together resources for studying electrophysiology and nonlinear dynamics through mathematical models of excitable cells. The collection is organized by topic and lecture, independent of a particular academic year or course offering.

The materials grew out of Greg Conradi Smith’s teaching at William & Mary and a curriculum initially developed with support from an NSF CAREER grant. They are intended for students, independent learners, and instructors.

Background and prerequisites

A working knowledge of introductory calculus and cell biology is helpful. Review graphing functions, derivatives, physical dimensions, and small matrices and vectors as needed. Later lectures introduce phase-plane analysis and linear stability alongside their biological applications.

• Paul’s Online Math Notes
• Khan Academy mathematics
• 3Blue1Brown

Textbook

Cellular Biophysics and Modeling: A Primer on the Computational Biology of Excitable Cells, Greg Conradi Smith, Cambridge University Press, 2019, develops the membrane biophysics and dynamics underlying the first two units.

William & Mary library access is available to eligible readers. Other readers can use the publisher link or their own library.

Using the collection

Start with the lecture sequence, explore models and games, or use practice and solutions to consolidate your understanding. See How to Use These Materials for study suggestions.

Further reading is collected in the bibliography.

Access to materials

Public videos, models, figures, and external resources are linked from the relevant lectures. Some readings and PDFs require a publisher subscription, institutional access, or permission to the private PDF companion. Restricted links are labeled; a public listing does not grant access to its destination.