Project description
An improved statistical method of multivariate data analysis
Modern scientific experiments often produce data that require the analysis of more than two variables per observation. The EU-funded GRAPHMODE project plans to develop efficient methods for the statistical analysis of such data. For their study, researchers will rely on probabilistic graphical models that express the conditional dependence structure between random variables. These models are the state-of-the-art approach for the detailed exploration of cause–effect relationships. The project will place a special focus on algebraic and statistical issues related to latent (unmeasured) variables and feedback loops in graphical models.
Objective
Modern science increasingly relies on insights gained from sophisticated analyses of large data sets. An ambitious goal of such data-driven discovery is to understand complex systems via statistical analysis of multivariate data on the activity of their interacting units. Probabilistic graphical models, the topic of this project, are tailored to the task. The models facilitate refined yet tractable data exploration by using graphs to represent complex stochastic dependencies between considered variables. Models based on directed graphs, in particular, provide the state-of-the-art approach for detailed exploration of cause-effect relationships. However, modern applications of graphical models face numerous challenges such as key variables being latent (i.e. unobservable/unobserved), lacking temporal resolution in studies of feedback loops, and limited experimental interventions. Often arising in combination, these issues generally result in observed stochastic structure that cannot be characterized using the established notion of conditional independence. As a result, we are left with only a partial understanding of which aspects of a system can be inferred from the available data, and we lack effective methods for fundamental problems such as inference in the presence of feedback loops. The aim of the new project is to move beyond conditional independence structure to obtain a deeper understanding of the inherent limitations on what can be inferred from imperfect measurements, and to design novel statistical methodology to infer estimable quantities. The unique feature of the proposed work is a focus on algebraic relations among moments of probability distributions and the subtle statistical issues arising when such relations are to be exploited in practical methodology.
Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
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.
-
H2020-EU.1.1. - EXCELLENT SCIENCE - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
See all projects funded under this programme
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.
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.
ERC-ADG - Advanced Grant
See all projects funded under this funding scheme
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.
(opens in new window) ERC-2019-ADG
See all projects funded under this callHost institution
Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
80333 Muenchen
Germany
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.