Chair of Statistics and Econometrics

In general, our research interests lie in the field of survey statistics, including methods dealing with the design, scientific review and, above all, statistical analysis of surveys. With the help of these methods, information about the population can be obtained from samples that represent only a comparatively small proportion of the population. The chair focuses in particular on small-area estimation methods and the enrichment of survey data with additional data sources, such as data from official statistics or mobile phone data. We estimate not only mean values, such as average wealth, but also non-linear indicators, such as various indicators for measuring inequality or poverty. Another feature of our research is the evaluation of new methods. Simulations are an important tool for this purpose. They allow us to generate complex scenarios in which our newly developed methods can be tested.

We primarily use the programming language R to implement our methods. The development and publication of efficient R packages is also part of our research activities.
 

• Survey statistics, in particular statistical modelling
• Item- and Unit-Nonresponse in Surveys
• Merging data from different sources (data fusion) and identifiability
• Indices and social indicators, in particular poverty measurement
• Use of large amounts of data/big data (such as mobile phone data) in statistics
• Small Area Estimation
• Simulation techniques and Monte Carlo methods
• Spatial analysis methods
• Sampling theory
• Bayesian statistics