Dr Nick Tawn

Research:

My research interests have mostly focused on developing scalable Monte Carlo methodology for use in complex Bayesian settings.

More specifically my research has focused on MCMC methodology in settings where the target distribution exhibits multi-modality. My PhD thesis, completed in 2017, was titled "Towards Optimality of the Parallel Tempering Algorithm".

Since completion of my thesis I have continued to work on similar problems whilst simultaneously also becoming interested in models used for ranking in sport and comparative judgement in educational settings.

I am always excited to discuss applied statistical/data science project supervision for statistical modelling in sports settings.

Teaching:

I'm very passionate about teaching statistics and probability. I am currently the module leader for ST230 Mathematical Statistics.

Prizes and accreditations:

In 2021 I won a WATE award for my teaching.
In 2025 I won a Department of Statistics teaching prize.
Senior Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA)

Director of Student Experience

I am currently the Director of Student Experience and Progression (DSEP) in the Department of Statistics. This role oversees the innovation and development of initiatives that improve student community and engagement. I have a particular interest in developing support that ensures students have the best possible start to their degree.

I am particularly proud of introducing:

The Stats Department Mentor Scheme - Supporting over 300 first year students in 2025/26.
SMASH - A themed and year specific drop in support for stats modules.

Careers Inspiration

I co-lead (with Dr Basini and Dr Chleboun) the departmental careers support and inspiration for our students. We have successfully introduced a whole suite of exciting new and inspiring flagship events with themes matching the major graduate destinations. We are building all of these around inspirational Alumni speakers.

Click here to see more. In 2025/26 we have had an outstanding lineup of speakers and excellent student feedback!

We hope to continue to develop our careers support and provision further and if you are an Alumnus who would love to share your story and network with our excellent students please do get in touch!

My CV is available on request; just send me an email to the above address.

Office: MB4.10

Email: n dot tawn dot 1 at warwick dot ac dot uk

Position: Teaching focused Reader

Office Hours: 15:00-17:00 Thursdays. But if you drop me an email I am happy to arrange a better time!