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We examine the question of solving the extinction probability of a particular class of continuous-time multi-type branching processes, named Markovian binary trees (MBT). The extinction probability is the minimal nonnegative solution of a fixed point equation that turns out to be quadratic, which makes its resolution particularly clear. We analyze first two linear algorithms to compute the extinction probability of an MBT, of which one is new, and, we propose a quadratic algorithm arising from Newton's iteration method for fixed-point equations. Finally, we add a catastrophe process to the initial MBT, and we analyze the resulting system. The extinction probability turns out to be much more difficult to compute; we use a $G/M/1$-type Markovian process approach to approximate this probability.

This Dagstuhl seminar has brought together leaders and young researchers in the fields of analysis of numerical algorithms, applied stochastic modeling and statistical inference, with the result of stimulating exchange of methodologies and experiences and generating synergetic collaborations. This has favored a better communication between these worlds where problems from the applications feed the theoretical research and where advanced numerical tools can be utilized in applications with reciprocal advantages.

From 11.11. to 14.11.07, the Dagstuhl Seminar 07461 ``Numerical Methods for Structured Markov Chains'' was held in the International Conference and Research Center (IBFI), Schloss Dagstuhl. During the seminar, several participants presented their current research, and ongoing work and open problems were discussed. Abstracts of the presentations given during the seminar as well as abstracts of seminar results and ideas are put together in this paper. The first section describes the seminar topics and goals in general. Links to extended abstracts or full papers are provided, if available.