Dr. Peng Feng
Professor, Department of Mathematics
Florida Gulf Coast University
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Dr. Peng Feng is a Professor in the Department of Mathematics at Florida Gulf Coast University, where he has served on the faculty since 2005. His academic focus lies in applied mathematics, particularly in using mathematical methods to uncover patterns and processes in the natural world. Dr. Feng’s research blends mathematical modeling with analytical techniques to study a range of dynamic systems. His work is often interdisciplinary, connecting mathematics with biology, ecology, and environmental science to address complex real-world problems. Beyond his research, Dr. Feng is a dedicated educator who emphasizes student engagement and critical thinking. He is deeply committed to mentoring students and supporting their academic and professional development. Through both his teaching and scholarly activities, Dr. Feng plays an active role in fostering a vibrant intellectual community and promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration at FGCU. |
Faculty Achievement: Research Highlights in applied mathematics with interdisciplinary applications in biology and ecology.
Mathematical Modeling of Tuberculosis Granulomas
| Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global health concern, causing approximately 1.5 million deaths annually. In response, Dr. Feng has developed a novel three-dimensional spatial model that simulates the formation and organization of granulomas—clusters of immune cells formed to contain TB infection. Unlike earlier models focusing primarily on immune cell quantity, Dr. Feng’s approach emphasizes the spatial arrangement of various immune cells, including macrophages and T cells, and their interactions with Mycobacterium tuberculosis over time. This model provides new insights into granuloma development and disease progression, advancing understanding that could inform future therapeutic strategies. |  |
Research on Species Coexistence and Biodiversity
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In Spring 2025, Dr. Feng, in collaboration with graduate student Alex Rizk, shifted focus to ecological modeling, examining how species mobility and intra-specific competition promote coexistence among competing species. Their findings challenge classical ecological theories, demonstrating that competition within species plays a key role in sustaining biodiversity. This work is scheduled for publication in the Journal of Biological Dynamics, a peer-reviewed journal dedicated to mathematical models in biology. |
Graduate Student Achievement
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Graduate student Alex Rizk, mentored by Dr. Feng, was recently awarded the Best Graduate Student Poster Award at EagleX, FGCU’s annual research and creative activities event. His poster, titled “Quadratic Harvesting: Sustainable Strategy for Competitive Species,” presents sustainable strategies for managing competitive species populations, complementing the ongoing ecological research in Dr. Feng’s lab. Dr. Feng’s research exemplifies the application of mathematical modeling to address complex biological and ecological problems, reflecting FGCU’s commitment to interdisciplinary scholarship and innovative research. |
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