Biological processes can be represented by different networks ranging from molecular networks (gene regulation, protein interaction, metabolism) to ecological and evolutionary networks. These networks are strongly linked to each other and embedded in space (e.g. cellular compartments, organs) and time (e.g. development, evolution). To help investigating and understanding biological processes intuitive network visualisation and navigation methods are required.

This talk presents an overview of types of biological networks, graph models to represent these networks, typical layout algorithms used to visualise such networks, and some tools used in systems biology. We will discuss ways to collaborate with users from the life sciences, to promote graph drawing methods in this application area, and possible research directions.