Designing complex networks

We suggest a new perspective of research towards understanding the relations between the structure and dynamics of a complex network: can we design a network, e.g. by modifying the features of its units or interactions, such that it exhibits a desired dynamics? Here we present a case study where we positively answer this question analytically for networks of spiking neural oscillators. First, we present a method of finding the set of all networks (defined by all mutual coupling strengths) that exhibit an arbitrary given periodic pattern of spikes as an invariant solution. In such a pattern, all the spike times of all the neurons are exactly predefined. The method is very general, as it covers networks of different types of neurons, excitatory and inhibitory couplings, interaction delays that may be heterogeneously distributed, and arbitrary network connectivities. Second, we show how to design networks if further restrictions are imposed, for instance by predefining the detailed network connectivity. We illustrate the applicability of the method by examples of Erdös–Rényi and power-law random networks. Third, the method can be used to design networks that optimize network properties. To illustrate this idea, we design networks that exhibit a predefined pattern dynamics while at the same time minimizing the networks’ wiring costs.