ELME is a summer educational program at the Kellogg Biological Station devoted to Enhancing Linkages between Mathematics and Ecology.

ELME 2012 will be three one week courses, focusing on statistical and theoretical methods in ecology. Week 1 is maximum likelihood estimation, week 2 is structural equation modeling, and week 3 is matrix population models. The course will be an interactive experience with participants working in groups on independent projects using the statistical program R.

The courses are designed to be taken as a unit and preference will be given to students who wish to come for all three weeks.

Dates and Instructors:

June 3 - June 8, Section 431: Maximum Likelihood Analysis in Ecology

Colin Kremer (Michigan State University)

June 11 - June 15, Section 432: Structural Equation Modeling

Donald Schoolmaster (National Wetlands Research Center / USGS)

June 18 - June 22, Section 433: Matrix Population Models

Hal Caswell (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute)

Hours:

Mon-Fri 9-5 (lecture in the morning, independent work in the afternoon)

Target audience:

Graduate studentsand exceptional undergraduates.

Prerequisites:

At least one semester of calculus, one of statistics. A little familiarity with matrix population models as well as some statistical program experience will be helpful.

Format:

A mixture of lecture, guided computer labs, and independent/team projects

To apply, email elme2012@kbs.msu.edu the following:

• your CV
• a statement of research interests and why you'd benefit from the course
• a statement of relevant educational/research experience, including related coursework
• the name of a reference who you've asked to email a letter of support

Deadline for applications: March 15, 2012

Financial support to cover room and board and help defray transportation costs is available.  Let us know if this is not necessary.  Academic credit, if desired, is available at appropriate MSU rates.  To take this course for academic credit, enroll in PLB 809 sections 431, 432, and 433 for weeks 1,2, and 3, respectively.

For more info:

About KBS

Any questions?  Email elme2012@kbs.msu.edu

ELME is supported by MSU and NSF grant DEB-0845825 to C. Klausmeier.