Inaugural Professorial Lecture - Professor Matthew Schofield

Professor Matthew Schofield will present his Inaugural Professorial Lecture, A Walk Through the Garden of Forking Paths: Exploring Models and Uncertainty, at the University of Otago. Professor Schofield is an applied statistician in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, with research focused on hierarchical Bayesian models and how they can be developed, fitted, and evaluated for complex applied problems.

His work spans areas including ecology, environmental science, biomechanics, physiology, genetics, and sports science, with a strong focus on understanding uncertainty and bringing scientific knowledge into statistical modelling. This public lecture is a chance to hear more about Professor Schofield’s research, academic journey, and the role of statistical models in making sense of complex scientific questions. The lecture will be followed by light refreshments, including tea, coffee, and juice.