Dr. Persi Diaconis

Professor

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Biography

I am a mathematician and statistician working in probability, combinatorics, and group theory with a focus on applications in statistics and scientific computing. My research specialty includes rates of convergence of Markov chains, and I am currently interested in adapting mathematical developments to provide useful insights for practitioners involved in large real-world simulations. Over the years, my research has explored key areas such as the results regarding birth-death chains, the careful analysis of casino shuffling machines, and contributions to understanding Bose-Einstein condensation. I'm dedicated to exploring new domains within Markov chains, including quasi-stationarity and absorption considerations in genetics and biology. Alongside theoretical developments, I have engaged in statistical analyses of graph network data, revealing surprising connections between statistics and graph limit theory. I have also worked on generalizations of de Finetti's notion of exchangeability and have been involved in diverse statistical assessment projects. My teaching includes various courses throughout the academic year, guiding students through statistical methodologies and advanced mathematics.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

1998-01-01 — Present

Stanford University • Stanford, California

Professor in the Department of Statistics and Mathematics.

David Duncan Professor

1996-01-01 — 1998-12-31

Cornell University • Ithaca, New York

Professor in the Department of Mathematics and ORIE.

George Vasmer Leverett Professor

1987-01-01 — 1997-12-31

Harvard University • Cambridge, Massachusetts

Professor in Mathematics.

Research Staff Member

1978-01-01 — 1979-12-31

AT&T Bell Laboratories • Murray Hill, New Jersey

Conducted research in statistics.

Assistant Professor

1974-01-01 — 1979-12-31

Stanford University • Stanford, California

Assistant Professor in Statistics.

Courses

MATH 108 STATS 318 MATH 230B STATS 310B MATH 360 STATS 398 STATS 399 MATH 230A STATS 310A MATH 233C MATH 106 MATH 235

Requirements for Stanford University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:100
GRE General
Verbal
Required:160
Quantitative
Required:165
Analytical Writing
Required:4.5
Overall
Required:4.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution Strong background in mathematics and programming
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

The Computer Science department emphasizes research potential. GRE General is currently optional but recommended for some tracks.