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FFF: Agnes Bolinska
October 10, 2023 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm EDT
Title: Understanding Integration: Lessons from Integrative Modeling in Structural Biology
Abstract:
Although the value of integrative research has been widely acknowledged, philosophers have yet to develop a comprehensive understanding of what, precisely, integration consists in and what makes it effective. In this paper, we provide a detailed descriptive and normative account of integration in structural biology by examining the practice of integrative modeling, a method for using information from multiple sources to compute structural models of biomolecular systems. Integrative modeling proceeds via four steps: (i) defining the model representation, which determines the variables whose values are to be computed by modeling; (ii) constructing a function for scoring alternative models with respect to how well they account for input information; (iii) searching a space of candidate models for an ensemble of acceptable models; and (iv) analyzing the acceptable models to evaluate their precision and fit with input information. These steps are iterated until a model ensemble adequate for addressing biological questions is found. We describe this process in detail, giving an account of the mechanics of integration in integrative modeling. We then offer normative guidance, proposing heuristics for conducting such modeling effectively. We conclude by suggesting that features of integrative modeling are common to integrative research in other domains.
This talk will be online through Zoom and also be available live streamed on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrRp47ZMXD7NXO3a9Gyh2sg.
The zoom link is https://pitt.zoom.us/j/92416076528.
Catching up with former fellow Agnes Bolinska.
Where are you now?
I’m at the University of South Carolina.
What are you working on?
The paper I’m presenting is part of a larger project examining modeling in structural biology. I’m interested in how information from different kinds of experiments, theory, and prior models can be integrated effectively, and what general lessons this practice can teach us about the nature of modeling, representation, and evidence.
Favorite memory of The Center?
Receiving my umbrella from John Norton at the end of my lunchtime talk. It’s traveled with me as I’ve moved around since leaving the Center, and I still carry it when it rains.
Greatest non-professional achievement since leaving the Center?
Taking up mountain biking when I moved to Columbia, SC. I’ve been a cyclist since but never thought I’d have the courage to get a bike on the trails—but now I’m obsessed!
Best book/movie/tv you’ve seen lately?
Shrinking on Apple TV.
Details
- Date:
- October 10, 2023
- Time:
-
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm EDT
- Event Categories:
- Featured Former Fellow LTT, Online Events
Venue
- Online Lecture
Organizer
- Center for Philosophy of Science
- Phone:
- 4126241050
- Email:
- pittcntr@pitt.edu
- View Organizer Website