Special Seminar: Moving to a World Beyond P<0.05

Friday, January 30, 2026
2:30pm-3:30pm in HSCI-103

Please join us for a special seminar with Dr. Ron Wasserstein, Executive Director of the American Statistical Association, titled: "Moving to a World Beyond P<0.05."

Abstract

For one hundred years, the concept of "statistical significance" has been fundamental to statistics and to science. In this accessible and humor-filled talk, statistician Ron Wasserstein reviews why "statistical significance" arose, how it has become scientific gospel, and why its retirement is long overdue. He'll argue that this artificial boundary has warped research incentives, publication practices, and ultimately scientific progress itself. Most importantly, he'll present practical alternatives that embrace uncertainty and nuance, leading to better science.

Please note: Dr. Wasserstein will be speaking in his capacity as an individual researcher and not in his role as Executive Director of the American Statistical Association.