Research often involves addressing hypotheses with data that are non-linear, non-normal, hierarchical or otherwise complex. This year’s ELME program focuses on introducing graduate students (or advanced undergraduates) to modern statistical methods that make it possible to link theory with empirical data in ecological and evolutionary research. The program will consist of three, intensive week-long courses.
Each course features a hands-on environment; students will learn the basics in a lecture setting and while cementing their knowledge with independent and collaborative lab projects using R. An emphasis is placed on applying course concepts to students' own research and data. Weekly topics are complementary, but each course is independent, so students can take any combination of these courses. Class runs from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday and may involve evening projects, so residence is expected.
June 1-5: Maximum Likelihood Analysis in Ecology
Instructor: Dr. Colin Kremer, Yale University
June 8-12: Modern Regression for Ecologists: GLMs, GAMs, Model Selection
Instructor: Dr. Kyle Edwards, University of Hawaii
June 15-19: Introduction to Bayesian Statistics for Ecologists
Instructor: Dr. Tom Miller, Rice University
Further details available at <http://www.kbs.msu.edu/index.
Hours: Mon-Fri 9 am - 5 pm
Target audience: 12-18 graduate students and exceptional undergraduates
Prerequisites: Previous experience with statistics including familiarity with generalized linear modeling (eg, ANOVA, linear regression, logistic regression) is recommended. Programming experience (any language, but particularly with the statistical programming language R) is beneficial.
Format: A mixture of lecture, and guided computer labs.
Admissions: favors, but is not limited to, students who can enroll through MSU or a participating CIC institution (Big 10 plus University of Chicago) though its Travelling Scholar Program. Financial support to cover room and board and help defray transportation costs may be available.
To apply, email elme2015@kbs.msu.edu the following:
- your CV
- a brief statement of research interests and why you'd benefit from the course
- a brief statement of relevant educational/research experience, including related coursework
- the name of a reference who you've asked to email a letter of support
- whether you are eligible for the CIC Traveling Scholars program
- whether you need financial support
Deadline for applications: March 23, 2015
Any questions? Email elme2015@kbs.msu.edu
--
Christopher Klausmeier
Kellogg Biological Station &
Department of Plant Biology
Michigan State University
Hickory Corners MI 49060
