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
Approaches for Assessing Parameter Identifiability in Mathematical Biology.
Journal article
Simpson MJ. and Baker RE., (2026), Bull Math Biol, 88
Cell–cell adhesion cannot sustain extended follower streams in a minimal non-local model of leader–follower migration
Journal article
Jewell T. et al, (2026), Journal of Theoretical Biology
An energy-based mathematical model of actin-driven protrusions in eukaryotic chemotaxis
Journal article
Samuel J. et al, (2026), Biophysical Journal
Inferring Cell–Cell Interaction Dynamics from Cell Trajectory Data Using Deep Attention Networks
Preprint
Boyle J. et al, (2026)
An optimal control approach to nonlinear wave speed selection in reaction-diffusion equations
Journal article
Crossley R. et al, (2026), SIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics