Biography

After practicing medicine for several years, I got infected by the research virus, and eventually decided that I wanted to be a scientist more than I wanted to be a physician. A short experience in basic science research has convinced me that neither rats nor labs were a good match for me—so I switched to epidemiology.

While taking courses toward a master of public health, I found out that epidemiological research was loaded with conundrums and controversies. Some were disguised as "statistics"; others as "epistemology" (not to be confused with "epidemiology"...) Since then I have tried to study, understand, and teach the trail along which we study a cause-and-effect relation: a trail that begins with philosophy of science (what is scientific knowledge?), continues through models of causation, study design, causal diagrams, bias and randomness, and ends with statistical models. I have unlimited respect for inquisitive minds, clear thinking, and good, non-pretentious, writing.

My subject matter science includes cardiovascular disease and sleep-disordered breathing, but I can find interest in thinking about any question that can be depicted in a causal diagram. From time to time I post here writing and exchanges on various methodological topics. Comments are always welcome.

CV

My Book--draft chapters

Selected Publications

Recommended Articles

Writing on Methodology

Exchanges on Methodology

Research

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Biography