PhD Scholarship - Making predictions beyond model-based clustering for mixed type data

History and purpose

Surveys typically contain data of mixed-type (binary, ordinal, count or continuous), but few methods exist to create clusters using collections of such data. A key aim of this project is to create new methods for clustering mixed-type survey data. The second step is to calibrate the relationship between derived cluster memberships and a more limited proxy data set. This will allow us to make cluster membership predictions for all individuals in the population for whom only the proxy data are available.

The candidate will contribute to this project by developing a novel structure for clustering for mixed-type data and building predictive models. The successful candidate will join the Marsden funded project “Making Predictions Beyond Model-based Clustering”. Our research team consists of experts in categorical data analysis (Prof Ivy Liu), computational methods (Prof Richard Arnold), and models for ordinal data (Dr Daniel Fernández).

Who is eligible?

We are seeking a highly motivated person with an excellent academic record, who is familiar with the mathematical theory and computational methods of statistics.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Honours or Masters degree with an excellent GPA.
• Background in statistics, data science, or a related field.
• Strong programming skills (preferably in R).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• An interest in contributing to a wide range of areas in the development of statistical methodology.

Selection criteria

Applications will be assessed on the basis of academic merit, having a background which aligns well with the research project, and an expressed interest in the research area.

Application process

To apply for the PhD position, please send the following documentation to Prof Ivy Liu ivy.liu@vuw.ac.nz.

• Cover Letter
• CV
• Copies of academic transcripts
• Writing sample (e.g. a first-author publication, or Master’s thesis chapter)
• Names of two referees

Note: Applicants must also meet the entry requirements for PhD study at Victoria University of Wellington. Refer to the Wellington Faculty of Graduate Research. New PhD applicants should complete the PhD Admission and Scholarship online application.

Scholarship specific documentation

• Cover Letter
• CV
• Copies of academic transcripts
• Writing sample (e.g. a first-author publication, or Master’s thesis chapter)
• Names of two referees

Selection process

Selection will be made by the project leaders (Profs Ivy Liu and Richard Arnold).

Additional information

The $35,000 per annum stipend will be paid directly to the student in monthly payments. Tuition fees & levies will be paid directly to the University.

The student must complete regular PhD progress reports to a satisfactory standard.

Acceptance of this scholarship includes conditions similar to those of the Wellington Doctoral Scholarship and signing of the Victoria Research Scholarship Contract.

Contact

Should you have any questions, please contact Prof Ivy Liu ivy.liu@vuw.ac.nz.