Offered in association with Fenner School.

In this course the major model types used to represent environmental systems are studied. Mathematical emphasis on how they are constructed will use the theory of inverse problems while the practical emphasis uses systems methodology. The focus will be on hydrological systems and their basic processes, combined with the constraints imposed by the limitations of real observational data.

Case studies and project assessment will cover:
Catchment hydrology
Soil physics
Subsurface hydrology
Stream transport

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but are assessed separately.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Describe  the basic processes and behaviours of different environmental systems and the major methods of modelling these (e.g. model family selection, model structure identification, parameter estimation, sensitivity assessment, optimisation)
2. Through critical evaluation of  case studies referring to hydrology, ecology, water quality and socioeconomics, appreciate the concept of tradeoffs and uncertainty sources in decision-making and optimisation
3. Evaluate the issues in building and evaluating models; formulate treatment of complex real-world problems (not just environmental problems); and select appropriate frameworks and methods to solve these, including using computer platforms and the statistical R package
4. Communicate and engage with interest groups involved in a problem; and appreciate how integrated assessment can be used for managing our environment  more sustainably, and the valuable role played by modelling
5. Build and test an example environmental model based on real problem and data

Assessment will be based on:

• Two assignments (30%; LO 1, 2)
• Five lab reports (25%; LO 2, 3)
• Project (35%; LO 3, 4)
• Two presentations (10%; LO 3, 4)

Bachelor degree; with second year Maths.