Why should earth scientists care about statistics?

Seminar by John H. Schuenemeyer

The IAMG students chapter at ITC has organized a seminar by Prof. John H. Schuenemeyer (International Association for Mathematical Geosciences).

All staff and students are invited to attend this seminar.

Abstract

Earth scientists are confronted with many challenges. Phenomena of interest are often deep within the earth surface, in oceans, or in the atmosphere. Collecting data often is costly, time consuming, and hampered by limited access. Geologic events occur at irregular intervals, often widely spaced. Decisions made on the basis of studies in the earth sciences can have significant long term consequences. An understanding of data used in decision making is critical. Statistics is about data. Exploratory data analysis provides insight into data quality, variability, and structure. Modern graphical procedures enhance our understanding of multifaceted data sets. Constructing models provides a basis for understanding complex geologic processes and for making inferences. Characterizing and understanding uncertainty associated with estimates is critical. Analogs and expert judgment frequently play an important role in analysis and modeling. Examples of the proper use and misuse of statistics will be presented.

Biography

John H (Jack) Schuenemeyer, the International Association for Mathematical Geosciences (IAMG) Distinguished Lecturer (DL) for 2012, is president of Southwest Statistical Consulting, LLC, and Professor Emeritus of Statistics, Geology and Geography, University of Delaware. He has been a statistical consultant for over 30 years specializing in earth science applications. Jack is an elected Fellow of the American Statistical Association (ASA) and a member of its Committee on Energy Statistics. He is the recipient of the IAMG 2004 John Cedric Griffiths Teaching Award. Jack is a member of the Committee on Resource Evaluation for the American Association of Petroleum Geologists. His current work in earth science activities includes developing statistical methodology for gas hydrate assessment, hierarchical modeling applied to oil and gas resource estimation models, aggregation methodology, and use of analogs for petroleum assessment. Jack’s interests in statistics include modeling, graphics, expert judgment, classification, spatial statistics, and statistical computing. He has been a leader in university-based statistical consulting and education. Jack has authored over
100 research publications, given numerous invited talks, and conducted workshops for scientists from industry and government. His book Statistics for Earth and Environmental Scientists, coauthored with Dr. L.J. Drew, was published by John Wiley in 2011. Additional information on Dr. Schuenemeyer can be found at www.swstatconsult.com.

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