Objective
"Statistical causal structure learning tackles the following problem: given iid observational data from a joint distribution, we estimate the underlying causal graph. This graph contains a directed arrow from each variable to its direct effects and is assumed to be acyclic. We propose to develop methods and mathematical theory for high-dimensional applications, where the number of variables is much larger than the number of samples.
Independence-based methods like the PC algorithm can discover causal structures only up to Markov equivalence classes, that is some arrows remain undirected. And their consistency relies on strong faithfulness, which has been shown to be a restrictive condition. We propose to exploit structural equation models (SEMs) instead. They assume each variable to be a function of its direct causes and some noise variable. For certain restrictions (e.g. non-linear functions and additive noise) we obtain full identifiability; that is, given an observational distribution, we can recover the underlying causal graph, even without requiring faithfulness. On low-dimensional data sets, SEM-based methods already outperform competing methods like PC. However, they are not applicable to high-dimensional problems yet. One of the main goals of this research proposal is to develop new SEM-based methodology for high-dimensional applications and provide a theoretical analysis.
In many applications, data are often collected under different environmental conditions. It is expected that the causal dependencies of a plant's genes, for example, behave differently under stress conditions like drought. Modeling these mechanism changes and exploiting them for causal structure learning is the second main goal of the research proposal. To the best of our knowledge, there is currently no methodology available for these tasks.
We will apply the developed methodology to biological systems. The research is closely linked to the interdisciplinary project ""InfectX""."
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
FP7-PEOPLE-2012-IEF
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Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Coordinator
8092 Zuerich
Switzerland
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.