Faculty Research
Understanding Diseases Through the Lens of Human Behaviour and Mathematics
In the world of infectious diseases, pathogens do not act alone. Their spread is deeply intertwined with how individuals behave, how societies respond, and how economic realities shape decisions. As a researcher in mathematical modelling of infectious diseases, my work focuses on understanding this complex interplay – where biology meets behaviour, and equations meet policy.
From Disease Spread to Decision Dynamics
Traditional epidemiological models, such as the well-known SIR framework, help us understand how diseases spread across populations. However, real-world outbreaks rarely follow purely biological rules.
People make decisions:
- Should I seek treatment now or later?
- Can I afford to isolate myself?
- Is preventive care worth the cost?
These choices are not random – they are shaped by economic constraints, awareness, and perceived risks.
My research integrates:
- Compartmental models (SIR/SEIR-type systems)
- Socio-economic factors (income, cost, access to care)
- Game theory (strategic human decision-making)
to develop models that better reflect real-world disease dynamics.