Research

Research is motivated by the desire to improve our understanding of complex systems by discovering the underlying principles, properties and purpose of their connectivity. We are using networks to gain “intelligence” to solve societal problems.

Research at the Network Science Institute investigates both the fundamental nature of networked systems as well as the applications of these principles to systems found in biological, social, technical, informational and spatial systems. It covers diverse areas, such as brain connectivity, subcellular and genomic interactions, infectious disease transmission and preparedness, infrastructural and spatial resiliency, decision making and performance of teams and large collectives, politics and voting patterns, collective action and social justice.

Our research is supported in large part from grants awarded by federal agencies, including the Department of Defense, National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as foundations and corporations.

Research Areas

Biological and Health Systems

Understanding biological interdependencies by integrating networks in biological systems, network medicine, and epidemiology & public health.

Social and Behavioral Dynamics

Exploring complex social dynamics in physical space and in online communities, that shape the natural and built environment.

Urban Networks and Infrastructure

Understanding urban complexity and optimizing infrastructure networks for efficiency, sustainability, and resilience.

Network Science of AI

Deciphering the network structures underlying natural and artificial learning systems through their connectivity patterns.

Complex Systems Forecasting

Developing network-based models and tools for prediction of complex systems and to support effective decision-making.

Fundamental Network Theory

Developing the core theoretical frameworks of complex systems and their applications.