In this course, we combine examples across physics, the life sciences, socio-economic sciences and humanities with an introduction to basic mathematical tools to learn a complex systems way of thinking.
Our world has an abundance of so-called complex systems. These are typically large collections of connected elements that influence each other. In recent decades, the science of studying complex systems has started to evolve and mature. It has become clear that a new, more integrated way of thinking is essential for understanding many of the complex challenges that humanity faces. The aim is to derive rules on how the dynamical behaviour of a complex system depends on the combined properties of individual elements, the nature of the interactions between elements, as well as the topology of interactions between elements, in order to understand and predict these systems and control them to have desirable properties. As an example, insight into which features of complex systems generate resilience against perturbations versus which properties enhance the sensitivity of the system and allow it to transition to a different equilibrium state is important for a broad range of questions on, for instance, climate change, social-political change, disruptive innovations, infectious disease emergence and ecosystem collapse.
The course will take place from Monday 18 August 2025 to Friday 22 August 2025 at the Utrecht Science Park. It consists of tutorial lectures and guest lectures from the broadest possible range of topics/fields/problems in which complex systems play a role, as well as hands-on computer practice working on projects in the afternoons. The preliminary program can be found below.
The main aim is to show students how complex systems science is applied by Utrecht University researchers to challenging societal problems.
Participants will be divided into groups to do all the projects. On the last day each group will present the results of one project. Only the ones who present the final projects can get the certificates and credits.
This course is offered by the Centre for Complex Systems Studies (CCCS). Please check out the video to get an impression of the centre!
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Day 1 (Monday 18 August)
Introduction to complex systems
Day 2 (Tuesday 19 August)
Theme: Feedback processes & emergence
Day 3 (Wednesday 20 August)
Theme: Theory of networks
Day 4 (Thursday 21 August)
Theme: Intervention & adaptation
Day 5 Friday 22 August)
Student presentations
Associate Members of the Centre for Complex Systems Studies (from all faculties of Utrecht University), scientists from their groups and possibly external guest lecturers.
No specific knowledge is required. Basic mathematical and programming skills will help, but are not required.
The aim of the course is:
The fee covers the course costs, as well as all lunches, one social activity including dinner, and drinks plus treats during breaks.
The housing costs do not include a Utrecht Summer School sleeping bag. This is a separate product on the invoice. If you wish to bring your own bedding, please deselect or remove the sleeping bag from your order once you apply for this course.
Please also upload an additional file/application form in which you indicate why you choose this summer school and what you expect to gain from this course (max 150 words in Word or pdf).
For this course you are required to upload the following documents when applying: