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Abstract:
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Gaussian process models have been used in applications ranging from machine learning to ecology. In the Bayesian framework, the Gaussian process is used as a prior for unknown functions, allowing the data to drive the relationship between inputs and outputs. In our research, we consider a scenario in which response and input data are available from several similar, but not necessarily identical, sources. When little information is known about one or more of the populations it may be advantageous to model all populations together. We present a hierarchical Gaussian process model with a structure that allows distinct features for each source as well as shared underlying characteristics. Key features and properties of the model are discussed and demonstrated in simulation examples. The model is then applied to a data set consisting of three populations of Rotifer Brachiomus clyciflorus Pallas. We model the log growth rate of the populations using a combination of lagged population sizes, and select the optimal combination. We formally compare the leading hierarchical Gaussian process model with the inferential results obtained under the independent Gaussian process model.
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