Elizabeth (Betsy) Bersson

I am a fifth year PhD student in the Department of Statistical Science at Duke University working with Peter Hoff. This summer, I worked in Dr. Zhao’s group within the NIEHS Biostatistics and Computational Biology Branch.

Broadly, I develop methodology that improves inferential precision in analyses with data obtained from multiple groups. I am particularly interested in developing straightforward methods that are robust to mis-specification without sacrificing usefulness. My work is related to covariance estimation, small area estimation, and conformal prediction.

Prior to coming to Duke, I worked on macroeconomic theory research with The Macroeconomic and Quantitative Studies group at The Federal Reserve Board.

Outside of statistics, I enjoy reading, going on walks, particularly through gardens, and vegetable gardening. As Cicero [said], “If you have a garden and a library, everything will be complete.” !