Ruth Bowness

Biography

I graduated with a BSc in Mathematics from the University of St Andrews in 2005, and after Masters courses in Mathematics and Numerical Computing from the University of Cambridge and the University of Manchester, I returned to St Andrews to complete a PhD in Applied Maths. During my PhD I worked in the Solar group, my project involved numerically solving the Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equations in order to model solar phenomena. I joined the Infection Group within the St Andrews Medical School in September 2012 to work on the PreDiCT-TB work programme, where I have been developing an appropriate mathematical framework within which data generated from experiments and tuberculosis clinical trials can be integrated. In this way we attempt to form template models that could help to form TB treatment plans and aid future drug development. Also working with the Mathematical Biology group in the School of Mathematics, my research involves using partial and ordinary differential equations, and individual-based models to describe infectious disease spread within the body and to simulate antibiotic treatment strategies. My current multidisciplinary project focuses on developing a spatial model to describe tuberculosis disease progression and treatment in the lungs. Ultimately the model will be capable of simulating new therapeutic approaches for multi-drug resistant tuberculosis.

Research Interest

My current research focuses on developing a spatial model to describe tuberculosis disease progression and treatment in the lungs.