Applied mathematics and statistics
Applied Mathematics and Statistics is one of the six main themes of science at CSL. The application of statistics and mathematics is critical for the sound evidence-based investigations that take place across all science themes within CSL. By continually refining our mathematical analysis techniques to address the practical needs of CSL's work, we assure the quality of our science and the credibility of customers' projects, published outputs and policy advice.
The numbers behind the science
In science, mathematical data is the medium that best lends itself to analysis and dissemination. Whatever the particular field of interest, the object of the scientific investigation is at some stage represented by numbers. The rigorous analysis of these numbers produces findings that can be translated back from data into meaningful 'real world' applications. This kind of analysis is fundamental to CSL's programme of sound evidence-based science. Consequently, the Applied Mathematics and Statistics capability impacts on the quality of CSL's work across the entire scientific spectrum.
By the skilful analysis of mathematical data, CSL's Applied Mathematics and Statistics network derives effective, reliable information for the benefit of customers, the scientific community and the public.
The practical application of mathematical methods
Mathematical analysis at CSL involves a number of specialised approaches, for example:
| Sampling | How can you be sure that the small sample being analysed is representative of the large bulk it came from? Many analysts frequently overlook this issue. At CSL, however, reducing the uncertainty from sampling to a minimum is an essential part of optimising the fitness for purpose of our methods. |
| Modelling | The creation of a mathematical representation of a system enables the kind of thorough investigation that yields insight into mechanisms, predictions of effects, and reveals gaps in knowledge that can generate future experimental studies. |
| Bioinformatics | An important new discipline making an impact in the field of molecular biology and metabolomics, bioinformatics is at the cutting edge of diagnostic tests in plant science, and food safety and authenticity. |
The Applied Mathematics and Statistics network is not in the business of developing mathematical theory; our work is closely related to the practical science going on within CSL and beyond. Solving practical problems requires, not only an armoury of mathematical methods, but also the ability to tailor those approaches to the complexities of the real world. By continually refining techniques of mathematical modelling and statistics to solve practical problems of importance to policy makers and other end-users, we remain at the forefront of applied mathematics. CSL maintains close links with theoretical developments in universities to ensure that appropriate methods are brought into practical application, as well as stimulating new developments in theory where suitable methods do not exist at present.
This poster describes our activities.
The network is coordinated by the statistics and informatics team.