Maxime Lucas (UNamur/UCLouvain)

Title : Of higher-order interactions, whales, and fungi

Abstract : 

The strength of dynamical systems and network models lies in their ability to represent diverse systems that, despite their apparent differences, rely on common mechanisms. In this talk, I will share insights from three of my primary research areas. First, we will explore how higher-order interactions—those involving any number of units—extend beyond traditional networks to impact the synchronisation of oscillators. In particular, I will discuss how the two most common representations of higher-order interactions, hypergraphs and simplicial complexes, can have opposing effects on synchrony stability. We will also see how these interactions can reduce the basin of attraction for synchronised states while enhancing their linear stability, resulting in more stable yet narrower basins. Second, I will introduce Project CETI, a multi-disciplinary collaboration focused on understanding sperm whale communication. Here, we will look at how factors like kinship and shared territories influence their communicative behaviors and social interactions. Finally, we will discuss underground fungal networks, specifically those of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. These fungi form extensive hyphal networks that connect to plant roots, facilitating resource exchanges and enhancing ecosystem resilience. We are interested in characterising the structural properties and robustness of these vital networks.

The seminar will take place in Room S07 at the Faculty of Sciences.