Ruth Baker
Professor of Applied Mathematics
Research interests
My research focuses on developing and applying novel mathematical, computational and statistical methodologies and modelling frameworks for investigating developmental biology systems at the cell and tissue level. I develop biologically realistic models that, used in tandem with experimental investigations, can provide fundamental insights into key biological mechanisms. An important aspect of my work is therefore multidisciplinary collaboration with theoreticians, life scientists and clinicians both within Oxford and further afield.
I also play a key role in QBIOX (https://www.qbiox.co.uk/), an MPLS-funded initiative to develop quantitative biology in Oxford.
Prizes, awards, and scholarships:
- Royal Society Wolfson Research Merit Award 2017-2022
- Leverhulme Research Fellowship 2017-2019
- London Mathematical Society Whitehead Prize 2014
Recent publications
A likelihood-based Bayesian inference framework for the calibration of and selection between stochastic velocity-jump models
Journal article
Ceccarelli A. et al, (2026), Journal of the Royal Society Interface
The influence of cell phenotype on collective cell invasion into the extracellular matrix.
Journal article
Yin Y. et al, (2025), Bull Math Biol, 88
Optimal experimental design for parameter estimation in the presence of observation noise.
Journal article
BAKER R. and Qi J., (2025), Mathematical Biosciences
Modeling cell differentiation in neuroblastoma: insights into development, malignancy, and treatment relapse
Journal article
Martina Perez S. et al, (2025), Journal of Theoretical Biology
Optimal control in combination therapy for heterogeneous cell populations with drug synergies
Journal article
Martina-Perez S. et al, (2025), Bulletin of Mathematical Biology
