Biomathematics & Statistics Scotland
What are the circumstances that determine how crop varieties will perform on a particular farm? Which are the influential environmental factors and how are their effects modified by genetic factors? These are the kinds of questions we want to address in a project which, though focused on the need to improve food crop performance, may provide methods that have application in other areas of life.
The primary goal of the project is to develop models which help predict the performance of new crop varieties when grown on individual farm. The information on which the models will be based includes:
Bayesian hierarchical modelling permits the synthesis of all this information, and can show which varieties are best suited to local conditions. Web-based technology can deliver this advice directly to the farmer.
Two current challenges in this area are
The project, which is based at BioSS-Edinburgh, will provide experience in the development of Bayesian approaches to practical decision problems.
For further details, contact Chris Theobald
