Timothy Lucas

Timothy Lucas is a Professor of Mathematics at Pepperdine University's Seaver College, within the Natural Science Division. He holds a PhD in Mathematics from Duke University (2006), an MA from Duke (2001), and an AB from Occidental College (2000, With Honors). His research focuses on mathematical ecology, mathematical biology, and educational technology, particularly developing apps like Slopes and Waves to visualize differential equations. He collaborates with undergraduates on projects modeling biological systems such as chaparral vegetation dynamics under wildfires, California newt population declines due to drought and invasive crayfish, and emergency evacuation simulations.

Dr. Lucas' educational contributions include advancing calculus pedagogy and integrating iPads into classroom environments to enhance collaborative learning. His work bridges computational methods with real-world ecological challenges, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches. He teaches courses ranging from calculus to partial differential equations and probability theory.

His research has been published in journals like Ecological Modelling, Journal of Theoretical Biology, and SIAM Journal on Numerical Analysis. The apps he developed (Slopes, Waves) are widely used for visualizing mathematical concepts. Recent work explores multifactor threats to biodiversity and innovative educational technologies.