Creating the statistical tools to solve the big problems

May 9, 2022 - Faculty of Mathematics Doctoral Prize winner Meng Yuan refines statistical models for real-world application - By Jon Parsons Faculty of Mathematics - Statistics are so common in our everyday lives that the subject can easily be taken for granted. But whether it is about pressing global issues related to the pandemic or more local concerns related to the housing market, statistics inform almost any decisions for policymakers and citizens alike. Because statistics are so commonplace, it is easy to forget that a lot of work goes into creating the statistical tools that help us understand the world and make the best decisions. Having the most refined statistical tools means better outcomes. That's where Meng Yuan comes in. Yuan is a researcher in the Department of Statistics and Actuarial Sciences, where she recently completed a PhD. For her exemplary work in her dissertation, she was named one of the winners of this year's Faculty of Mathematics Doctoral Prize.