Optimizing the stable behavior of parameter-dependent dynamical systems   - maximal domains of attraction, minimal absorption times
  We propose a method for approximating solutions to optimization problems involving the global stability properties of parameter-dependent continuous-time autonomous dynamical systems. The method relies on an approximation of the infinite-state deterministic system by a finite-state non-deterministic one - a Markov jump process. The key properties of the method are that it does not use any trajectory simulation, and that the parameters and objective function are in a simple (and except for a system of linear equations) explicit relationship. 
P\'eter Koltai and Alexander Volf
math.OC math.DS