Introduction to Ecological Niche Modelling

In this workshop, participants will explore species data and ecological models to understand the relationships between species and their environment. We use innovative tools such as the Atlas of Living Australia (ALA) Spatial Portal to learn about key features, data quality issues, cleaning data and environmental layers. You will be introduced to the basic elements of species distribution models, climate change projections and biodiversity analyses, including the data required to run the models, the differences across various model algorithms and how to appropriately interpret and evaluate the results of model outputs. Using the Biodiversity and Climate Change Virtual Laboratory (BCCVL), workshop participants will access national datasets to run their models and analyses.

Program

Day 1, AM:

• Introduction to ENM theory
• Applications of ENMs
• ENM data requirements, limitations & preparation
• ENM methods

Day 1, PM:

• Species Distribution Model practice
• Species Distribution Model evaluation & comparison

Day 2, AM:

• Climate Change introduction
• Climate Change Analysis practice
• Biodiversity introduction

Day 2, PM:

• Biodiverse Analysis practice
• Biodiverse Analysis interpretation
• Conclusions
• Questions

Requirements:

All participants must bring their own personal laptop with access to Google Chrome or Firefox web browsers.

The workshop will be of interest to students, academics and industry professionals with an interest in ecology, environmental science, biodiversity conservation and climate science. No complex coding/statistical knowledge is required. Just bring your laptop, and we'll provide access to a wealth of data and modelling tools.

Dates, times and locations

QLD

University of Queensland
St Lucia Campus, 4072
Tues 5th Aug - Wed 6th Aug 2017
9am - 4pm on both days
Room to be confirmed

NSW

University of New South Wales
High St, Kensington, 2052
Tues 5th Sept - Wed 6th Sept 2017
9am - 4pm on both days
Room to be confirmed

VIC

Melbourne Museum
11 Nicholson St, Carlton 3053
Tues 10th Oct - Wed 11th Oct 2017
9am - 4pm on both days
Room to be confirmed

SA

University of Adelaide
North Terrace Campus
Tues 7th Nov - Wed 8th Nov 2017
9am - 4pm on both days
Room to be confirmed

More locations to be announced soon