PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY, UNIVERSITY PARK, PA
May 27-June 1, 1998
Complex multivariate and developing systems are increasingly a major focus
in genetics. Many chronic diseases result from a complex interplay among
numerous interacting genetic loci, developmental processes, and behavioral
aspects of risk for developing disease and for understanding mechanism.
Many outstanding developments have occurred in non-linear dynamic models
in non-genetic contexts that show great promise in overcoming the
limitations of linear models. To explore the utility of a systems approach
to the genetics of complex traits, a computer-intensive workshop will be
conducted by leading experts to investigate this approach in genetic
models of complex systems. The workshop is designed to foster
communication and nurture collaboration between methodologists in linear
and non-linear dynamic models and geneticists who focus on complex traits.
The curriculum will begin with an overview of the current state of the art
and limitations in the genetic analysis of complex traits. This will be
followed by an introduction to linear models, a transition into simple
non-linear models, followed by the fundamentals of chaos and bifurcation
theory, with an emphasis on catastrophe theory. Each topic will be
introduced with a formal presentation followed by an introduction to
computer software that is used for analysis. Participants will then
perform hands-on computer analysis of a problem with faculty tutors
available for consultation. Each topic will conclude with an open
discussion of the problem, its analysis, and the results.
The faculty roster includes: G. P. Vogler (Workshop Director), G. E.
McClearn, S. M. Hofer, and M. J. Rovine (Penn State); T. Berger (USC); S.
M. Boker (Notre Dame); P. C. M. Molenaar (University of Amsterdam); J. R.
Nesselroade (University of Virginia); F. E. Yates (UCLA and ALZA Corp).
All expenses of the workshop and up to 100% of the travel, lodging, and
per diem expenses of participants will be covered. Since space is limited,
interested participants are requested to apply by sending a C. V. and a
paragraph outlining their expertise in the area of the workshop indicating
their substantive area, their commitment to interdisciplinary approaches,
and what they expect to gain from the experience.
Send application material and questions about the workshop to:
George P. Vogler
Center for Developmental and Health Genetics
Pennsylvania State University
101 Amy Gardner
University Park, PA 16802
e-mail: gpv@hatteras.cdhg.psu.edu
fax: 814-863-4768
phone: 814-865-1717
Financial support for this workshop is provided by grant RR13094 from the
National Center for Research Resources.