Institut für Mathematische Stochastik

Job Vacancies at IMS

 

 

 

At the University of Göttingen - Public Law Foundation – we offer a position at the Institute for Mathematical Stochastics, April 1, 2024 or later, as

Doctoral Researcher (PhD Student) (all genders welcome)
- 75 % of pay grade 13 TV-L -

The vacancy is limited for 3 years.
 
We are looking for a PhD student for the project “Bayesian Asymptotic Theory for Manifold Data and Bayesian Smeariness of Location Statistics”. The project will explore the effects of non-Euclidean geometry on Bayesian inference from a frequentist Bayesian perspective. Specifically, we are interested in Bayesian inference in models, in which frequentist estimation is affected by “smeariness”, which means slower asymptotic rates of convergence of the sample mean distribution. These have been described in terms of a modified Central Limit Theorem. From the frequentist Bayesian point of view, the Bernstein-von-Mises Theorem plays an analogous role to the Central Limit Theorem in Bayesian inference.
 
The principal goal of the project is therefore twofold:
1. Devise methodology for Bayesian inference which restores the relationship between posterior variance and variance of the MAP which is the subject of the Bernstein-von-Mises Theorem also in the case of smeariness.
2. Prove a generalized Bernstein-von-Mises for this inference procedure, which is applicable to the case of smeariness.
 
The successful candidate has graduated with an excellent masters and has thorough expertise of at least one of the following areas with the interest to acquire expertise in the others:

  • asymptotic statistics,
  • Bayesian statistics,
  • statistics on non-Euclidean spaces,
  • differential geometry.

Especially, previous experience in Bayesian asymptotic theory is highly desirable.
 
Further, the successful candidate can demonstrate basic knowledge of numerical methods and standard programming environments (e.g. python, GNU R), in order to implement, test and document methods developed in the project and run simulations. Prior experience in the implementation of Markov Chain Monte Carlo algorithms is useful.

The University of Göttingen aims to increase the proportion of women in areas where women are underrepresented and therefore urges qualified women to apply. It also sees itself as a family-friendly university and promotes the compatibility of science / career and family. The university is particularly committed to the professional participation of severely disabled and therefore welcomes applications from severely disabled persons. In case of equal qualifications, preference will be given to applications from people with severe disabilities. A disability or equality is to be included in the application in order to protect the interests.
 
Please include the following in your application:

  • Cover letter,
  • scientific CV, including list of publications,
  • relevant certificates (high school, bachelor, master),
  • a brief summary (at most one page) of the topic and results of the master thesis.

 
Please apply before March 10th 2024 via email to Dr. Benjamin Eltzner
(benjamin.eltzner@mathematik.uni-goettingen.de)
and include the reference number 832377 in your subject line.

Please note:  With submission of your application, you accept the processing of your applicant data in terms of data protection law. Further information on the legal basis and data usage is provided in the Hinweisblatt zur Datenschutzgrundverordnung (DSGVO)

https://www.uni-goettingen.de/hinweisdsgvo

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