Networks in Complex Systems: Modeling, Analysis, and Control

Dear Colleagues,

Complex systems are characterized by large-scale interactions, nonlinear dynamics, heterogeneous components, and emergent collective behavior. Networks provide a unifying mathematical framework for modeling such systems across diverse scientific and engineering domains. This Special Issue aims to compile high-quality contributions that advance the theory, methodology, and applications of networks in complex systems.

We welcome original research articles, reviews, and perspectives that explore the modeling, analysis, computation, and control of networked complex systems. Submissions may focus on theoretical developments, data-driven approaches, or real-world applications. Contributions that bridge multiple disciplines or integrate classical methods with machine learning or artificial intelligence are particularly encouraged.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Network modeling and representation of complex systems (biological, social, technological, ecological, neural, and engineered networks).
• Network dynamics, including synchronization, diffusion, cascade processes, spreading dynamics, and collective behavior.
• The controllability and observability of complex networks, structural controllability, control energy optimization, and actuator/sensor placement.
• Network control and optimization, including feedback mechanisms, distributed control, robust control, and multi-agent coordination,
• Data-driven and machine learning methods for networked systems, including graph neural networks, network inference, and hybrid modeling,
• The dynamics and control of multi-agent systems, swarm systems, cyber–physical networks, and autonomous systems.
• Complex system behavior analysis, resilience, stability, tipping points, and emergent phenomena.
• Applications in robotics, energy systems, transportation, neuroscience, epidemiology, finance, and social systems.

This Special Issue seeks to provide an interdisciplinary forum for researchers working at the intersection of network science, dynamical systems, and control theory. By promoting the integration of theoretical tools and real-world applications, we aim to stimulate new insights and foster collaboration across different fields.

Dr. Jian Liu
Dr. Ye Yuan
Prof. Dr. Qingdu Li
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.