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CCMS Colloquium: Ruby Kim (University of Michigan)
October 3, 2025 @ 11:00 am - 12:15 pm
CCMS Colloquium invites you to a talk by Ruby Kim (University of Michigan)
Title: Mathematical Models of Circadian Rhythms and Seasonal Timing
Abstract: The circadian clock shapes nearly 24-hour periodic rhythms throughout the body, from the activity of individual cells to our daily sleep/wake cycles. These rhythms can be self-sustained (for example, people still show circadian patterns even in total darkness), but they are also strongly influenced by the environment, especially light. Mathematical models of circadian rhythms have provided insight into many intriguing phenomena, including jet lag, mid-afternoon fatigue, and how animals sense the changing seasons. In this talk, I will introduce how mathematical models of circadian rhythms are constructed and used. Then, I will share recent work on seasonal timing in a large population of medical interns, using data collected from wearable devices. Our results suggest that seasonal timing plays a key role in how people respond to shift work. Overall, the goal of this talk is to introduce how mathematical modeling can be used to better understand biological rhythms and their impact on daily life.
Bio: I am originally from Koreatown, Los Angeles. I did my undergraduate studies at Pomona College (Class of ’17), where I majored in math and completed a thesis under the mentorship of Dr. Ami Radunskaya. I enjoyed teaching mathematics and doing research, so I decided to pursue graduate studies in math at Duke University. During my PhD, I fell in love with biological rhythms and mathematical neuroscience. Currently, I am a postdoc at the University of Michigan using mathematical modeling and data science to study biology and health. During my free time, I enjoy playing pool, hanging out with my dog, and reading.
