Bayesian Analysis of Capture-Recapture Data Workshop
Dr Ruth King, Professor Byron Morgan and Dr Olivier Gimenez
Bayesian Methods are making an enormous impact in the area of population ecology. In this workshop the participants will be given instruction on the underlying ideas associated with Bayesian methods and the computational algorithms, applied to the area of population ecology, with particular focus on the mark-recapture-recovery data.
The workshop will begin with an introduction to Bayesian methods and the Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm before considering more advanced topics, including, for example, random effect models, state-space models, dealing with missing data, model selection (including posterior model probabilities and averaging) and the reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm.
Theory and methods will be motivated and illustrated using a range of ecological capture-recapture examples. The workshop will make use of (and provide) the recently published book "Bayesian Analysis for Population Ecology" by King, Morgan, Gimenez and Brooks. The workshop will combine lectures with hands-on computer practical sessions using and adapting the computer programs provided by the organisers in both WinBUGS and R. In addition to the book, participants will also receive a memory stick containing the talk slides, datasets analysed and all the Win BUGS and R codes used in the workshop.
No prior knowledge of Bayesian methods will be assumed, however, we will assume that the delegates will either have attended the "Analysis of Capture-Recpature Data" workshop immediately prior to this workshop or have knowledge or experience of capture-recapture data and the Cormack-Jolly-Seber (CJS) model. Workshop participants will acquire new statistical tools for answering important questions relevant to the conservation and management of wild animal populations.
Early bird registration £540 before 10th August and a discounted rate of £430 for students.
For further information, including a complete draft schedule for each workshop, registration information and contact details, visit the website.
Enquiries should be addressed to Rhona Rodger
Rhona@mcs.st-and.ac.uk
