Phylomania 2013
The UTas Theoretical Phylogenetics Meeting
Nov 6-8, 2013, University of Tasmania
Organized by: Jeremy Sumner and Barbara Holland
Phylogenetics is concerned with the problem of reconstructing the past evolutionary history of organisms from molecular data, such as DNA, or morphological characters. There is ongoing interest in the further development of the mathematics that underlies computational phylogenetic methods. Hidden from view, in the software packages used by biologists, are algorithms performing statistical inference using Markov models on binary trees. The mathematics involved represents a unique confluence of probability theory, discrete mathematics, statistical inference, algebraic geometry, and group theory. There are many important theoretical problems that arise, such as statistical identifiability of models, consistency and convergence of methods. These problems can only be solved using a multi-disciplinary approach. Phylomania brings together phylogenetic researchers with a strong theoretical leaning, with the aim of discussing some of the more pressing problems.
We are delighted that the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute (through the Mathematics of Planet Earth program) are sponsering Mike Steel to give a public talk on the "Mathematical Challenges in Finding the Tree of Life" on the evening of Wednesday 6th November. The talk will be held in the Stanley Burbury lecture theatre at the Sandy Bay campus, with drinks and finger-food from 7pm onwards.
Confirmed international speakers
Registration
- Mike Steel, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, NZ
- David Penny, Massey University, Palmerston North, NZ
- David Liberles, University of Wyoming, Laramie, United States
- Greg Butler, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada
- Gillian Gibb, Massey University, Palmerston North, NZ
- Simon Hills, Massey University, Palmerston North, NZ
Registration cost is $100 with a reduced rate of $40 for students. Email Barbara to register for the meeting.Long talk, short talk, or a poster?
There are limited slots for speakers, but if you miss out don't despair as we will also provide space and time for posters and a Q&A session. When you register please let us know if you would like to give a a 40 minute talk, a 20 minute talk or present a poster.Local information
The program will begin with a public seminar by Mike Steel at 7pm on Wednesday 6th. All other talks will be scheduled for Thursday 7th and Friday 8th. For those that can stay on until the weekend there will be a group hike on the Saturday.
Click here for a pdf of the programe and abstracts.*NEW* Talk slides: 7th and 8th International Year of Statistics
Phylomania is proud to be part of the International Year of Statistics 2013, a worldwide celebration of the contributions of statistical science to the advancement of our global society.
Last modified November 2013 by Barbara Holland.
Photo of Mount Wellington taken from University sports ovals courtesy of Dr. Kym Hill.
