VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.

252-4303-00L 2 Credits BSC D-INFK

Theoretical Computer Science meets other Disciplines

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Paolo Penna
Number of participants limited to 22. The deadline for deregistering expires at the end of the second week of the semester. Students who are still registered after that date, but do not attend the seminar, will officially fail the seminar.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:54:23

Abstract

Students present papers in Theoretical Computer Science which have also some "interdisciplinary flavor". Methods in classical theory of computing are used to better understand some fundamental questions in other fields (biology, social science, economics, etc.). The talks give a first outlook of these type of results which typically provide rigorous analysis of algorithms ("prove theorems").

Objective

Learn how to understand and present the key ideas and mathematical concepts in theory papers; Develop a critical attitude to evaluate the importance of a theoretical result and its practical relevance.

Content

In this seminar students will present papers in Theoretical Computer Science which have also some "interdisciplinary flavor". For example, they use methods in classical theory of computing to advance our understanding of some fundamental question in other fields (biology, social science, economics, etc.). The talks will give us a first outlook of these type of results which provide rigorous analysis of algorithms ("prove theorems"). In their presentations, students should put the results into context, isolate the "computer science" or "computational" aspect, and its relation to the practical question.

Resources

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance

Registration & Places

Max Places
22
Priority: Registration for the course unit is until 03.03.2021 only possible for the primary target group

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
seminar Theoretical Computer Science meets other Disciplines
  • Thu 10:15-12:00 (CAB G 57)
2 h weekly

Offered In

  • Computer Science Bachelor
    • Seminar (Students may also choose a seminar from the Master's program in Computer Science. It is their responsibility to make sure that they meet the requirements and conditions for this seminar.)