© Lana Medo

Name: Clara HORVATH
Current position: Doctoral student (University assistant) at ASC
Starting date: January 2024
Work group: MSE (Prof. Andreas KÖRNER)
Dissertation topic: Modelling, analysis and simulation of the endocrine system

Modelling, mathematical analysis, and simulation of the human endocrine system form the core of my research. Since January 2024, I have been working as a university assistant in the research group Mathematics in Simulation and Education under the supervision of Prof. Andreas Körner. My master’s thesis, titled “Modelling and Analysis of the HPT-Complex”, was also carried out in the same group, and I had already been employed there since January 2021 as a research and administrative assistant. Since I greatly enjoyed both the scientific environment and the collaboration within the team, it was clear to me that I wanted to continue my academic path here and pursue a PhD.

In my master’s thesis, I focused on the calibration and stability analysis of ordinary differential equation systems that model physiological control loops of the human endocrine system—particularly those related to the thyroid. The so-called Hypothalamus–Pituitary–Thyroid system (HPT axis) plays a central role in understanding hormonal feedback mechanisms in the body. Mathematical models help to represent these complex dynamics and provide valuable insights into the long-term behaviour of such systems.

As part of my doctoral studies, I now work more broadly on the modelling, analysis, and simulation of different endocrine axes. In addition to the HPT axis, I also investigate models of the female menstrual cycle, whose mathematical structure is likewise shaped by multiple feedback pathways and distinct time scales. A key component of my work is a local and global sensitivity analysis, which allows me to examine how strongly individual model parameters influence the behaviour of the entire system. Moving forward, I will study singular perturbation theory to better understand the interaction of fast and slow processes within hormonal regulation. This aspect of mathematical analysis particularly fascinates me, as it makes the structural properties of complex biological systems visible.

Mathematics captivates me because, despite its often abstract nature, it offers a very clear and structured approach to problem-solving. Working with differential equations allows me to combine analytical thinking with creative methods for simulating and understanding such systems.

As for the future, I cannot yet make a definitive statement. I do not know exactly which paths will open for me—but I look forward to the opportunities ahead and to continuing to pursue my passion for mathematics within a scientific environment.