Random models: applications to engineering and life sciences.

Summary This volume presents elementary random models (discrete and continuous time Markov chains, extreme value laws) and some of their current applications: optimization algorithms, supply management, queue sizing, reliability and design of structures. More recent problems are also addressed: search for exceptional sequences and homogeneous zones of DNA, estimation of the mutation rate of DNA, coagulation phenomena of polymer molecules or aerosols.This volume is intended for a very wide audience of students and teachers. The prerequisite for its reading is the mastery of the contents of an introductory course in probability (4th cover).