Professor Ray Chambers recently reviewed the methodology used to construct the Annual Earnings Index for the Office for National Statistics, whilst Professor Ian Diamond is directing a major project developing the methodology to measure and adjust for the likely under enumeration in the 2001 Census. Statistical modelling is used within much of the demographic and actuarial research undertaken in the Department, as well as being a topic of research itself. Through the Inter-Faculty Statistics Group close collaboration is maintained with other Statisticians within the University, especially those within the Department of Mathematics. This group meets at weekly seminars to discuss the latest developments in statistical theory and applications. Extensive research links also exist with colleagues at other UK and overseas universities, and with UK and overseas statistical offices.
Life is full of uncertainty.
Decision making, whether in the context of a commercial venture, medical practice, or social policy formation is inherently risky. To reduce the risk of making the wrong decision we need information and evidence. It is statisticians who provide the data, analyses and inferences upon which decisions are made. Professional statisticians need to have a high degree of technical sophistication which can only be gained through postgraduate study. In addition statisticians need to be able to listen to the needs of clients, and to be able to communicate their findings to the user community.