Bayesian Modelling in Statistical EcologyDates: Wednesday 9 June to Friday 11 June 2004Times: 9am to 5pm Location: Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Otago, Dunedin Workshop LeadersDr William (Bill) LinkMathematical Statistician, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Centre, Laurel, Maryland, USA Dr Richard Barker Associate Professor, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand BackgroundThere has been a recent explosion of interest in Bayesian inference methods owing to the development of methods such as Markov chain Monte Carlo (McMC) and its implementation in the computer package WinBUGS. This is despite the philosophical debate over much of the 20th century that saw Bayesian methods largely sidelined and restricted to the domain of a small group of hard-core keepers-of-the-faith. Bayesian methods prove ideal for handling complicated data sets that commonly arise in ecology and for which standard techniques, such as those based on maximum likelihood theory, have proven unsatisfactory. Examples include analysis of non-normal data from complicated multistage sampling schemes and fitting models with an emphasis on exploring relationships between parameters.ContentThis will be a three day workshop for ecologists, and statisticians with an interest in the ecological application or practical application of Bayesian inference to problems in ecology. There will be a mix of lectures in which participants delve into the underlying background of Bayesian methods and McMC, and computer sessions in which real examples are analysed. Participants are encouraged to bring along data.RegistrationFull registration is NZ$450 if paid on or before May 14 or NZ$550 if paid after. A limited number of places are available to students at the discounted price of NZ$300 if paid on or before May 14 or NZ$400 if paid after.Application form | |
