Around 250 participants from 35 countries attended the 31st Dynamics Days Europe 2011 from 12 to 16 September at the University of Oldenburg. The conference is one of the largest events on the subject of dynamic systems. It is organised by the four Oldenburg scientists Prof. Dr Ulrike Feudel (Physics), Prof. Dr Hannes Uecker (Mathematics), Prof. Dr Joachim Peinke (Physics) and Dr Bert Albers (Managing Director of the Institute of Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment).

The conference was also attended by the leading international chaos researcher, Prof. Dr James A. Yorke (University of Maryland at College Park). The mathematician gave the public lecture "The Many Facets of Chaos" on 12 September. The lecture explained the basic ideas of chaotic dynamics and linked them to applications in the fields of weather forecasting and genome analysis.

The conference centred on the discussion of the theory and application of non-linear dynamic systems in the interdisciplinary interplay of mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology and engineering. Current questions on the dynamics of networks, e.g. in the climate system or in the brain, were discussed as well as the formation of monster waves in the ocean or the prediction of epileptic seizures. For all their diversity, these phenomena have one thing in common: they are caused by complex interactions.

The scientists have also investigated the question of how natural systems and experimental facilities react to changes in external conditions. In doing so, they demonstrate methodological approaches and their development, which include both the representation of the environment in suitable mathematical models or computer models and the evaluation of observational data. These approaches can be used, for example, to better understand and predict changes in ecosystems under the influence of climate change. A particular thematic focus of the conference - in line with Oldenburg's research areas - is on environmental and climate research and the study of non-linear effects in biological systems. Leading scientists from around the world presented their findings, while poster discussions enabled young scientists to engage in intensive dialogue with top scientists.