Department
Biological Sciences
Major
Biological Sciences and Computer Science
Research Advisor
Scharf, Andrea
Advisor's Department
Biological Sciences
Funding Source
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Abstract
Understanding the impact of reproduction on the aging process within species populations remains an ongoing challenge in ecological and evolutionary research. In this study, we aim to clarify the relationship between reproduction and senescence using agent-based modeling using wild species data sets. Our objectives include investigating how variations in reproductive rates influence the lifespan and aging trajectories of individuals within populations, as well as identifying potential mechanisms underlying these effects. We will employ agent-based modeling to simulate populations and explore the dynamics of reproduction and senescence using publicly available datasets of local wild species. By manipulating parameters related to reproductive rates and longevity, we will observe and evaluate the effects of reproduction on population-level aging patterns. Additionally, we will utilize a previous OURE project, the C.elegans population simulation, as a case study to further our modeling approach and to uncover correlations between reproduction and senescence.
Biography
Nathan Smith is a Computer Science and Biology major that has participated in research programs such as the MST OURE program working with the C. elegans simulation and acted as a fellow on the Fort Leonard Wood field study and insect survey. He has a/so gained field experience with catching, trapping, and caring for fish, reptiles, and amphibians through his Herpetology and Ichthyology courses during his academic career as Missouri S& T.
Research Category
Sciences
Presentation Type
OURE Fellows Proposal Oral Applicant
Document Type
Presentation
Location
Havener Center - Carver Room
Presentation Date
10 April 2024, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Included in
Effects of reproduction on senescence in local species
Havener Center - Carver Room
Understanding the impact of reproduction on the aging process within species populations remains an ongoing challenge in ecological and evolutionary research. In this study, we aim to clarify the relationship between reproduction and senescence using agent-based modeling using wild species data sets. Our objectives include investigating how variations in reproductive rates influence the lifespan and aging trajectories of individuals within populations, as well as identifying potential mechanisms underlying these effects. We will employ agent-based modeling to simulate populations and explore the dynamics of reproduction and senescence using publicly available datasets of local wild species. By manipulating parameters related to reproductive rates and longevity, we will observe and evaluate the effects of reproduction on population-level aging patterns. Additionally, we will utilize a previous OURE project, the C.elegans population simulation, as a case study to further our modeling approach and to uncover correlations between reproduction and senescence.
