Stochastic modelling of populations of interacting cells with complex underlying phenotypes

Individual based models describe the stochastic evolution of interacting individuals-cells with different phenotypes. Reaction networks on the other hand describe the stochastic interactions between different phenotypes-molecular species within a single cell. Current literature focuses either on the population level with individuals having simple phenotypes or to reaction networks of single cells ignoring the interactions between cells. This project will attempt a joint modelling of these two levels. We will be interested to see the advantages of this approach particularly in terms of analysing cellular decision making and its sensitivity to multidimensional changes of their external environment.
A strong interest in molecular and cellular biology is required but previous experience is not necessary. Background in stochastic processes and stochastic differential equations will be beneficial.