Dissertation Defense Schedule
Academic Excellence
Sharing original dissertation research is a principle to which the University of Delaware is deeply committed. It is the single most important assignment our graduate students undertake and upon completion is met with great pride.
We invite you to celebrate this milestone by attending their dissertation defense. Please review the upcoming dissertation defense schedule below and join us!
PROGRAM | Electrical & Computer Engineering
Unraveling Cellular Dynamics Through Stochastic Hybrid Models for Genetic and Neuronal Circuits
By: Zahra Vahdat Chair: Abhyudai Singh
ABSTRACT
Living cells exhibit significant stochastic fluctuations due to low molecular counts and inherently random biochemical processes. Leveraging stochastic modeling, we aim to unravel the underlying mechanisms governing information transfer and precision in the fundamental cellular processes. We delve into the intricate interplay between molecular variability and cellular processes, focusing on gene expression, cell size regulation, and neuronal synaptic transmission.
Through systematic analyses, we explore various sources of noise, including stochastic bursting in protein synthesis, random events in protein turnover, and noise in cell-cycle progression. These analyses provide insights into the statistical properties of protein levels and their dependence on distinct noise mechanisms.
Furthermore, we delve into the role of feedback mechanisms in gene expression regulation, investigating how negative feedback circuits influence noise and sensitivity in protein levels. By comparing different feedback mechanisms under varying conditions, we uncover trade-offs between noise reduction and input-output sensitivity, highlighting the complex interplay between molecular regulation and cellular function.
Moving beyond gene expression, we investigate the homeostatic mechanisms underlying cell size regulation. By modeling continuous growth and division processes, we uncover the role of nonlinear growth dynamics in maintaining size homeostasis. Our analyses reveal the intricate balance between cell growth, division, and feedback mechanisms, providing valuable insights into cellular size control mechanisms.
In the realm of neuronal synaptic transmission, we explore the impact of diverse noise mechanisms on neurotransmitter release and postsynaptic neuron activity. Through mechanistic stochastic models, we quantify the dynamics of neurotransmitter release and synaptic efficacy, uncovering the complex relationship between noise, synaptic strength, and neuronal activity.
Overall, this dissertation offers a comprehensive exploration of stochastic phenomena in cellular biology, providing novel insights into the mechanisms governing precision and variability in gene expression, cell size regulation, and neuronal synaptic transmission. By combining analytical approaches with stochastic modeling techniques, we elucidate fundamental questions surrounding molecular variability and its implications for cellular function and behavior.
The Process
Step-by-Step
Visit our “Step-by-Step Graduation Guide” to take you through the graduation process.From formatting your Dissertation to Doctoral Hooding procedures.
Dissertation Manual
Wondering how to set up the format for your paper. Refer to the “UD Thesis/Dissertation Manual” for formatting requirements and more.
Defense Submission Form
This form must be completed two weeks in advance of a dissertation defense to meet the University of Delaware Graduate and Professional Education’s requirements.
