Data Intensive Research and Scientific Statistical Modelling
Data Intensive Research
Over the last decade or so vast amounts of data are routinely collected in typical experiments and needs to be analysed. New inferential techniques are now needed to intelligently sort and synthesise these vast information sources so that sound and focussed inferences can be made. Perhaps two of the most common domains facing these challenges lie in the science of biological regulation and in brain imaging - areas of intense research at Warwick - although the problems also extend to both governmental and industrial domains as well.
Warwick statisticians boast international acclaim for their contribution to the development of new inferential methods to address these issues. In particular the department has several members who are fellows of the Alan Turing Institute which provides a hub of five top universities at the very centre of this research within the UK.
Staff members working in this area include David Wild, Ioannis Kosmidis, Theo Damoulas, Murray Pollock, Jane Hutton, Adam Johansen.
Scientific Statistical Modelling
Galileo Galilei told us that mathematics is the language of science, and David Hilbert described mathematics as an instrument that mediates between thought and observation. In our days, observations have become complex and rich sets of data, making probabilistic modelling and statistical methodology key technologies to build models for scientific discoveries.
In collaboration with scientists you can model components of scientific experiments, identify sources of variation, model quantify risks, predict behaviour and make decisions under uncertainty. The objectives can be to tackle basic scientific questions, such as understanding of role of genes for a certain biological process or disease, understanding spatial patterns in archeological findings or the modelling of noise in computed tomography. They may aim at concrete applications such as quality control of novel genomic technologies, detection or flaws in 3D-printed objects or individualisation of medical treatments based on measurements of the patient’s circadian clock.
Warwick statisticians are involved in numerous collaborations with natural scientists, social scientists and clinicians on campus and in other universities around the globe and maintain relationships with a variety of industrial partners.
Staff members working in this area include Julia Brettschneider, Wilfrid S. Kendall, David Wild, Ioannis Kosmidis, David Firth, Simon Spencer, Baerbel Finkenstaedt, Rich Savage, Anastasia Papavasiliou, Jane Hutton.
A typical student's experience -- Nat Shiers
Having completed an integrated masters in Mathematics and Statistics at Warwick, I was already aware that the department offered an excellent research environment. The high level of expertise of academics and the quality of the supervision made the transition from a taught to a research degree very smooth. The atmosphere of the department is very friendly and everybody is really approachable, which I found to be conducive to an enjoyable research experience.