VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Applied Category Theory for Engineering I
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:15:31
Abstract
Applied Category Theory is an exciting multidisciplinary field of research which harnesses the mathematical language of category theory for applications across a broad range of disciplines. This course is a gentle introduction focused on applications in engineering and the “compositional approach” to systems analysis, co-design, and computation.
Objective
1) Learn basic concepts from algebra and category theory, together with ways to make use of these concepts for engineering applications. 2) Become familiar with case studies of applied category theory, for instance involving dynamical systems, databases, and complex system co-design (e.g. in the context of autonomous vehicles). 3) Be able to recognize compositional structures in concrete scenarios at different levels of abstraction. 4) Understand the “compositional way of thinking” as an approach to systems analysis, co-design, and computation.
Content
Review of basic algebraic structures [sets, relations, (semi)groups, monoids, actions, order theory] Gentle introduction to category theory [series and parallel composition, feedback, actions, functors, universal properties] Many simple applied examples illustrating concepts along the way. Extended examples from dynamical systems, databases, and systems co-design in engineering. Homework will consist of 1) basic exercises to check one’s understanding of core concepts, and 2) a choice between either A) coding exercises (in python) to learn how to implement concepts in software or B) further theory exercises to deepen mathematical understanding. Homework will be graded on a schedule that allows some flexibility, and it will constitute 100% of the grade (no exam).
Resources
Lecture Notes
Slides and a (work-in-progress) textbook for the course will be provided (A. Censi, J. Lorand, G. Zardini, "Applied Compositional Thinking for Engineers").
Literature
Censi, Lorand, Zardini, "Applied Compositional Thinking for Engineers" ( https://bit.ly/3qQNrdR ) Supplementary references include the following books: Fong, Spivak, “An invitation to applied category theory: Seven sketches in compositionality” Spivak, “Category theory for the sciences”
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DR , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Applied Category Theory for Engineering I |
|
3 h weekly |
Offered In
-
-
-
Robotics, Systems and Control (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)
-
-
-
-
Doctorate Mechanical and Process Engineering (More Information at: )