Jan Hasenauer

Prof. Jan Hasenauer, Interdisciplinary Research Unit Mathematics and Life Sciences, University of Bonn, DE

Mechanistic modelling and machine learning: A love story

Abstract

In the realm of systems biology, the marriage between mechanistic modelling and machine learning has blossomed into a dynamic partnership, revolutionizing our understanding of complex biological systems. This presentation explores the intertwined relationship between mechanistic modelling and machine learning, highlighting their collaborative efforts in unraveling biological mysteries. 

One of the key aspects of this love story is the utilization of machine learning methods for the optimization of mechanistic models. By harnessing the power of mini-batch optimisation, the training of comprehensive models for biological processes becomes feasible. Furthermore, the emergence of invertible neural networks has opened new avenues for Bayesian uncertainty analysis in systems biology. These innovative approaches enable researchers to unravel uncertainty in model predictions, providing deeper insights, e.g. into biological variability. 

A second key aspect is the incorporation of biological priors in machine learning models and the formulation of hybrid models. This adds another layer of sophistication to this love story. By integrating prior knowledge derived from biological principles, machine learning algorithms can better adapt to the complexities and nuances of biological data, enhancing the predictive accuracy and interpretability of models.

Through a series of examples, this presentation will showcase the symbiotic relationship between mechanistic modelling and machine learning, demonstrating how their combined efforts are driving forward our understanding of complex biological systems and paving the way for future advancements in systems biology research.

Biography

Jan Hasenauer studied Technical Cybernetics at the University of Stuttgart, where he also obtained his doctoral degree in Engineering Sciences. He then worked at the Helmholtz Zentrum München and the Technical University of Munich as PostDoc and leader of a Young investigator group. Since 2017, he has been a Professor of Mathematics and Life Sciences at the University of Bonn, and since 2022, he has held one of the highly prestigious Schlegel professorships established within the framework of the Excellence Initiative. Jan Hasenauer received several awards, including the MTZ Award for Medical Systems Biology and is a member of the Excellence Clusters "Hausdorff Center for Mathematics" and “ImmunoSensation2” of the University of Bonn.