[ECOLOG-L] COURSE: Communication and Facilitation Skills for Conservation Managers (Jan 28 application deadline approaching!)

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Course: COMMUNICATION AND FACILITATION SKILLS FOR CONSERVATION MANAGERS
Dates: April 8-12, 2019
Description: The IUCN SSC Conservation Planning Specialist Group, in 
partnership with other leading international conservation organizations, will 
be delivering a professional training course designed to enable conservation 
managers, scientists and students to manage group decision-making processes 
more effectively. In today's world many of the conservation problems we solve, 
decisions we take and plans we develop involve collaboration with other people 
and organizations. Such collaboration is difficult to achieve and requires a 
certain set of interpersonal and process skills to be most effective. This 
course is designed to achieve this, building your competencies around 
listening, conflict resolution, team development, problem-solving and 
collective group decision-making.  By the end of the course you should feel 
better equipped to manage internal meetings, difficult inter-personal 
discussions and design multi-stakeholder planning workshops.  

The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, is a partnership between George 
Mason University and the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI). All 
courses are currently either 1- or 2-week intensive residential courses hosted 
in our sustainably-built Volgenau Academic Center on the grounds of SCBI in 
Front Royal Virginia. All courses offer continuing education credits (CEUs) and 
some can be taken for graduate credit as well. Limited scholarships are 
available for eligible applicants for some programs. Visit our website 
(http://SMConservation.gmu.edu) for more details about each course, course 
costs, and credits earned. 

ADDITIONAL UPCOMING COURSES
Statistics for Ecology and Conservation Biology  March 11-22, 2019 ( a few 
seats remain, must apply now!)
Practical Zoo Nutrition Management May 6-10, 2019
Camera Trapping Study Design and Data Analysis for Occupancy and Density 
Estimation June 10-21, 2019
Estimating Animal Abundance and Occupancy (July 8-19, 2019) applications will 
open soon.
Managing Ecological Data in R: Introduction to data science and the art of 
wrangling for ecologists August 5-9, 2019
Essentials of Spatial Ecology: GIS Analysis in R, QGIS and Google Earth Engine 
September 16-20, 2019

[ECOLOG-L] Learn R and Regression Models in this 2-week Intensive Course! - Statistics for Ecology and Conservation Biology at SMSC, Front Royal, VA

[NZP-SCBI Training]

STATISTICS FOR ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
March 11-22, 2019 
Gain in-depth knowledge of analysis techniques for cutting-edge ecological 
research, employing R: classical regression models; mixed models; generalized 
linear models; how to deal with the limitations of real datasets; and 
conservation-specific approaches. Participants learn how to choose appropriate 
analyses for different research questions, and about the assumptions underlying 
each model. Through the lectures and hands-on exercises participants learn how 
to explore their data, perform a range of analyses, understand fitted models, 
and clearly explain their results. By the end of the course, participants will 
be able to conduct sophisticated statistical analyses, critically evaluate 
statistics-based material in current research literature, and deal with the 
limitations of real datasets in the context of conservation science. Early 
course material and pre-course work focuses on teaching the basics of R and all 
work during the program is conducted in R including data manipulation and graph 
creation. The course does not require previous experience in R. 

All The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation courses are either 1- or 
2-week intensive residential courses hosted in our sustainably-built Academic 
Center on the grounds of SCBI in Front Royal Virginia. All courses offer 
continuing education credits (CEUs) and some can be taken for graduate credit. 
Limited scholarships are available for eligible applicants for some programs. 
Visit our website (http://SMConservation.gmu.edu) for more details about each 
course, course costs, and credits earned. Additional courses for late 2019 will 
be added soon.

ADDITIONAL UPCOMING COURSES:
AniMove: Statistics for Animal Tracking Data (February 11-15, 2019: Apply 
before November 16!)
Communication and Facilitation Skills for Conservation Managers (April 8-12, 
2019)
Practical Zoo Nutrition Management (May 6-10, 2019)
Camera Trapping Study Design and Data Analysis for Occupancy and Density 
Estimation (June 10-21, 2019)
Essentials of Spatial Ecology: GIS Analysis in R, QGIS and Google Earth Engine 
(September 16-20, 2019)  

[ECOLOG-L] STATISTICAL ANALYSIS IN R for Ecologists: SMSC Course now open for application

[NZP-SCBI Training]

COURSE: Statistics for Ecology and Conservation Biology
DATE: March 11-22, 2019
LOCATION: Front Royal, VA, USA (Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation)

SMSC is excited to announce the 2019 offering of this popular professional and 
graduate student training course. Gain in-depth knowledge of regression-based 
analytical techniques for ecological research employing the R computing 
environment. This course will cover classical regression models as well as a 
suite of generalized linear models, concluding with an on overview of mixed 
model applications.  Extensive analytical practice in the course will involve 
real ecological datasets. Participants learn how to choose appropriate analyses 
for different research questions, and about the assumptions underlying each 
model. Through the lectures and hands-on exercises participants learn how to 
explore their data, perform a range of analyses, understand fitted models, and 
clearly explain their results. By the end of the course, participants will be 
able to conduct sophisticated statistical analyses, critically evaluate 
statistics-based material in current research literature, and deal with the 
limitations of real datasets in the context of conservation science. Multiple 
days at the end of the course will be devoted to independent analysis of 
assigned project datasets concluding with individual presentations of results 
and their interpretation. No prior knowledge of R is required, but assigned 
pre-course work in R will be necessary for beginners. This course is available 
for 3 graduate credits to eligible applicants and professionals will receive 
Continuing Education Credits for their participation. Find out more at: 
http://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/graduate-and-professional/professional-training-courses/mccs-0501-statistics-for-ecology-and-conservation-biology/

The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation is a partnership between George 
Mason University and the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI). All 
courses are either 1- or 2-week intensive residential courses hosted in our 
sustainably-built Academic Center on the grounds of SCBI in Front Royal, 
Virginia, USA.  See our other upcoming offerings below and check out our 
website (http://SMConservation.gmu.edu) for more information about our programs.

Additional Upcoming Courses:
- AniMove: Statistics for Animal Movement Analysis (February 11-15, 2019)
- Communication and Facilitation Skills for Conservation Managers (April 8-12, 
2019)
- Practical Zoo Nutrition Management (May 6-10, 2019) - application opening soon
- Camera Trapping Study Design and Data Analysis (June 10-21, 2019)

[ECOLOG-L] TRAINING COURSES at SMSC - DEADLINES APPROACHING for training in Migratory Birds Research and Genomics Analysis

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Graduate/Professional Training at Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation
The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation offers professional and graduate 
student training in a range of topics in applied ecology and conservation 
biology. These courses are 5 to 12-day intensive residential programs hosted in 
our sustainably-built Academic Center on the grounds of Smithsonian 
Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia, USA. All courses offer 
continuing education credits (CEUs) and some can be taken for graduate credit. 
Limited scholarships are available for eligible applicants. See our upcoming 
offerings below and check out our website 
(smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/graduate-and-professional/) for more course 
details and pricing.

Ecology and Conservation of Migratory Birds (September 17-28, 2018) - apply 
before July 9 for first consideration!  
Led by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, this course teaches the most 
current methods in the research of migratory birds including theoretical 
concepts, field and laboratory methods (e.g. mist-netting, banding, tissue 
sampling, stable isotope geochemistry, geolocators and radio telemetry), data 
analysis (including distance sampling and mark-recapture statistics) and 
applied conservation strategies.
Participants will be mist-netting and handling birds during many mornings of 
the course, and will also learn to prepare museum voucher study skins.

Bioinformatics Analysis for Conservation Genomics (October 10-19, 2018) - NEW 
COURSE
This course is designed to provide attendees at any career stage with a 
theoretical understanding of the methods used in conservation genomics along 
with the practical skills necessary to design and carry out the analysis 
component of a conservation genomics study. While an introduction to the 
theoretical aspects of each of the analytical steps will be given, the emphasis 
of the course will be on hands-on training, enabling the participants to 
complete the analysis steps behind a conservation genomics study. The course 
will begin with an overview of conservation genomics, comparison of different 
next generation sequencing platforms, and the analytical factors to consider 
when beginning a conservation genomics study. The rest of the course will focus 
on the bioinformatics analysis behind a conservation study, including: genome 
assembly (trimming, assembly techniques, quality assessment), genome 
annotation, mapping low coverage genome data to a reference genome, SNP 
calling, demographic analysis, and estimation of genome-wide diversity. By the 
end of the course, attendees will have acquired the necessary background and 
applied knowledge to implement genomic analyses for the conservation of 
endangered species.

Applications will open soon for the following 2019 courses: 

*Statistics for Ecology and Conservation Biology (March 11-22, 2019) 
*Communication and Facilitation for Conservation Managers (April 8-12, 2019)
*Camera Trapping Study Design and Data Analysis for Occupancy and Density 
Estimation (June 10-21, 2019)

[ECOLOG-L] Training in ENDOCRINOLOGY, GENOMICS ANALYSIS and MIGRATORY BIRD CONSERVATION at SMSC

[NZP-SCBI Training]

GRADUATE/PROFESSIONAL TRAINING - SMITHSONIAN-MASON SCHOOL OF CONSERVATION
Front Royal, Virginia, USA

The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation is excited to be offering a number 
of new courses in the second half of 2018. These courses are 10 to 12-day 
intensive residential programs hosted in our sustainably-built Academic Center 
on the grounds of Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, 
Virginia, USA. All courses offer continuing education credits (CEUs) and some 
can be taken for graduate credit. Limited scholarships are available for 
eligible applicants. See our upcoming offerings below and check out our website 
(http://SMConservation.gmu.edu) for more course details and pricing.

NON-INVASIVE TECHNIQUES AND APPLICATIONS IN WILDLIFE ENDOCRINOLOGY  (NEW!)
July 23 - August 3, 2018 (apply before May 14)
The purpose of this course, taught by the experts at the National Zoo's 
Endocrinology Laboratory, is to provide theoretical information and practical 
experience in using endocrine monitoring techniques for assessing reproductive 
status and welfare in wildlife species, both in captive and wild scenarios. 
Lectures will cover aspects of basic biology, theory of immunoassay 
methodology, reproductive endocrinology and stress physiology, and examples of 
data obtained from in-situ and ex situ studies of wildlife species. Extensive 
lab work will include demonstrations and hands-on experience in sample (urine 
and feces) processing and analysis using enzyme immunoassay technology. 
Computer lab sessions will include basic and advanced data analysis techniques. 
Participants will also work on independent group projects where they will apply 
what they have learned and complete a full lab analysis and data interpretation 
themselves. A comprehensive endocrine training manual will be provided to 
course participants. 

ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION OF MIGRATORY BIRDS
September 17-28, 2018   
Led by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, this course teaches the most 
current methods in the research of migratory birds including theoretical 
concepts, field and laboratory methods (e.g. mist-netting, banding, tissue 
sampling, stable isotope geochemistry, geolocators and radio telemetry), data 
analysis (including distance sampling and mark-recapture statistics) and 
applied conservation strategies.
Participants will be mist-netting and handling birds during many mornings of 
the course, and will also learn to prepare museum voucher study skins.

BIOINFORMATICS ANALYSIS FOR CONSERVATION GENOMICS  (NEW!)
October 10-19, 2018 
This course is designed to provide attendees at any career stage with a 
theoretical understanding of the methods used in conservation genomics along 
with the practical skills necessary to design and carry out the analysis 
component of a conservation genomics study. While an introduction to the 
theoretical aspects of each of the analytical steps will be given, the emphasis 
of the course will be on hands-on training, enabling the participants to 
complete the analysis steps behind a conservation genomics study. Thus, the 
course will follow the format of short lectures introducing each analytical 
step, followed by hands-on activities during which students will complete the 
corresponding analysis. The course will begin with an overview of conservation 
genomics, comparison of different next generation sequencing platforms, and the 
analytical factors to consider when beginning a conservation genomics study. 
The rest of the course will focus on the bioinformatics analysis behind a 
conservation study, including: genome assembly (trimming, assembly techniques, 
quality assessment), genome annotation, mapping low coverage genome data to a 
reference genome, SNP calling, demographic analysis, and estimation of 
genome-wide diversity. These steps will all be accomplished with real data used 
in a recent conservation genomics study and performed on the Smithsonian High 
Performance Computing Cluster (SI/HPC). By the end of the course, attendees 
will have acquired the necessary background and applied knowledge to implement 
genomic analyses for the conservation of endangered species.

[ECOLOG-L] To Post: New Courses and Approaching Deadlines for Training at Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Graduate/Professional Training at Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation
The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, a partnership between George 
Mason University and the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI), is 
proud to announce their upcoming 2018 courses. We're excited to be offering a 
number of new courses. All courses are between 5 to 12-day intensive 
residential courses hosted in our sustainably-built Academic Center on the 
grounds of SCBI in Front Royal, Virginia, USA. All courses offer continuing 
education credits (CEUs) and some can be taken for graduate credit. Limited 
scholarships are available for eligible applicants. See our upcoming offerings 
below and check out our website (http://SMConservation.gmu.edu) for more course 
details and pricing.

Course: Communication and Facilitation Skills for Conservation Managers (new!)
Date: April 16-20, 2018 (apply by Feb 5 for priority consideration)
Details: The IUCN SSC Conservation Planning Specialist Group, in partnership 
with other leading international conservation organizations, will be delivering 
a professional training course designed to enable conservation managers, 
scientists and students to manage group decision-making processes more 
effectively. In today's world many of the conservation problems we solve, 
decisions we take and plans we develop involve collaboration with other people 
and organizations. Such collaboration is difficult to achieve and requires a 
certain set of interpersonal and process skills to be most effective. This 
course is designed to achieve this, building your competencies around 
listening, conflict resolution, team development, problem-solving and 
collective group decision-making.  By the end of the course you should feel 
better equipped to manage internal meetings, difficult inter-personal 
discussions and design multi-stakeholder planning workshops.  

Course: Camera Trapping Study Design and Data Analysis for Occupancy and 
Density Estimation
Date: June 4-15, 2018
Details: This course provides a theoretical and analytical background in the 
use of camera traps to address ecological and conservation-oriented questions 
including the estimation of animal abundance, density and occupancy, and the 
monitoring of population trends over time. In addition to 3-4 day modules on 
both occupancy modeling and density estimation using spatially-explicit 
approaches (SCR), the course includes a module on data management, introductory 
work in the program R, and time for focused work with instructors on 
participants' own datasets. SCR analysis will be done in R using the package 
"oSCR". Occupancy modeling will be taught in the program Presence, with 
additional work in R. 

Additional Upcoming Courses:
-Practical Zoo Nutrition Management (May 7-11, 2018)
-Non-Invasive Techniques and Applications in Wildlife Endocrinology (new!) 
(July 23 - August 3, 2018)
-Ecology and Conservation of Migratory Birds (September 17-28, 2018)
-Bioinformatics Analysis for Conservation Genomics (new!) (October 10-19, 2018) 

[ECOLOG-L] Faculty Position: Term Assistant Professor in Conservation Biologist, George Mason University, Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Please share with any interested colleagues.

Term Assistant Professor in Conservation Biology

George Mason University seeks a full-time, Term Instructional Professor 
position in Conservation Biology for the 2018-19 Academic Year (nine-month 
appointment, renewable) to participate in the Smithsonian-Mason School of 
Conservation (SMSC) (http://smconservation.gmu.edu/). The position will be 
based at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) in Front Royal, 
Va. (https://nationalzoo.si.edu/conservation). George Mason University has a 
strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity 
among its faculty and staff, and strongly encourages candidates to apply who 
will enrich Mason's academic and culturally inclusive environment.

Responsibilities:

In this unique immersive teaching framework, the successful applicant will work 
as part of a team of core faculty to provide instruction for a diverse 
portfolio of academic programming, including the Smithsonian-Mason Semester for 
Conservation Studies, an in-residence program for undergraduate students based 
at SCBI that emphasizes interdisciplinary, field, and lab-intensive coursework. 
This program focuses on building conservation-related skills and professional 
development opportunities for students interested in becoming conservation 
professionals. Faculty should expect to engage in at least 16-20 contact hours 
with students weekly. Additional duties will include continued planning for the 
undergraduate program.

Additional duties will include: continually plan for the undergraduate program; 
develop and teach new courses in the applicant's area of expertise; and/or 
participate in planning and instructional activities to support SMSC's 
graduate/professional program and programming for high school, undergraduate, 
and international audiences.

Required Qualifications:

. Ph.D.;
. Demonstrated dedication to teaching; and
. Professional experience in a conservation-oriented field that will intersect 
with and add diversity to current programming and courses (see courses at 
http://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/).

Special Instructions to Applicants   

For full consideration, applicants must apply for position number F112Az at 
http://jobs.gmu.edu/; complete and submit the online application; and upload a 
cover letter, CV, a list of three professional references with contact 
information, and a teaching vita that includes a teaching philosophy and 
summary of evaluations and course development work.

Review of applications begins after October 9, 2017, and will continue until 
the position is filled. The start date for this position is June 1, 2018, or 
earlier. Information about the SMSC may be obtained at 
http://smconservation.gmu.edu or by contacting Kathy Stewart 
mailto:kstew...@gmu.edu. 

https://jobs.gmu.edu/postings/41506

[ECOLOG-L] TRAINING COURSES: 2018 Course Schedule at Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, Scholarships Available!

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Graduate/Professional Training: Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation
Front Royal, Virginia, USA

The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, a partnership between George 
Mason University and the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI), is 
proud to announce their upcoming course schedule for 2018. All courses are 
currently either 1- or 2-week intensive residential courses hosted in our 
sustainably-built Academic Center on the grounds of SCBI in Front Royal 
Virginia. All courses offer continuing education credits (CEUs) and some can be 
taken for graduate credit as well. Limited scholarships are available for 
eligible applicants. Visit our website (http://SMConservation.gmu.edu) for more 
details about each course, course costs, and credits earned.

Upcoming Courses:

Statistics for Ecology and Conservation Biology
(February 12-23, 2018)

Communication and Facilitation Skills for Conservation Managers
(April 16-20, 2018)

Practical Zoo Nutrition Management
(May 7-11, 2018)

Camera Trapping Study Design and Data Analysis for Occupancy and Density 
Estimation
(June 4-15, 2018)

Non-Invasive Techniques and Applications in Wildlife Endocrinology
(July 23 - August 3, 2018)

Ecology and Conservation of Migratory Birds
(September 17-28, 2018; Applications will open soon)

[ECOLOG-L] Term Assistant Professor in Conservation Biology: Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Note that this position has changed slightly from a previous posting (now a 
12-month instead of 9-month position). The link has also been updated. Please 
share with any interested colleagues.

Term Assistant Professor in Conservation Biology

George Mason University seeks a full-time, Term Instructional Professor 
position in Conservation Biology for the 2018-19 Academic Year (nine-month 
appointment, renewable) to participate in the Smithsonian-Mason School of 
Conservation (SMSC) (http://smconservation.gmu.edu/). The position will be 
based at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) in Front Royal, 
Va. (https://nationalzoo.si.edu/conservation). George Mason University has a 
strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity 
among its faculty and staff, and strongly encourages candidates to apply who 
will enrich Mason's academic and culturally inclusive environment.

Responsibilities:

In this unique immersive teaching framework, the successful applicant will work 
as part of a team of core faculty to provide instruction for a diverse 
portfolio of academic programming, including the Smithsonian-Mason Semester for 
Conservation Studies, an in-residence program for undergraduate students based 
at SCBI that emphasizes interdisciplinary, field, and lab-intensive coursework. 
This program focuses on building conservation-related skills and professional 
development opportunities for students interested in becoming conservation 
professionals. Faculty should expect to engage in at least 16-20 contact hours 
with students weekly. Additional duties will include continued planning for the 
undergraduate program.

Additional duties will include: continually plan for the undergraduate program; 
develop and teach new courses in the applicant's area of expertise; and/or 
participate in planning and instructional activities to support SMSC's 
graduate/professional program and programming for high school, undergraduate, 
and international audiences.

Required Qualifications:

. Ph.D.;
. Demonstrated dedication to teaching; and
. Professional experience in a conservation-oriented field that will intersect 
with and add diversity to current programming and courses (see courses at 
http://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/).

Special Instructions to Applicants   

For full consideration, applicants must apply for position number F112Az at 
http://jobs.gmu.edu/; complete and submit the online application; and upload a 
cover letter, CV, a list of three professional references with contact 
information, and a teaching vita that includes a teaching philosophy and 
summary of evaluations and course development work.

Review of applications begins after October 9, 2017, and will continue until 
the position is filled. The start date for this position is June 1, 2018, or 
earlier. Information about the SMSC may be obtained at 
http://smconservation.gmu.edu or by contacting Kathy Stewart 
mailto:kstew...@gmu.edu. 

https://jobs.gmu.edu/postings/41506

[ECOLOG-L] Training Courses at Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation: Sept 2017-Feb 2018

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Graduate/Professional Training - Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation  at 
the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, Virginia, USA
September 2017-February 2018 schedule: our intensive residential courses offer 
continuing education credits (CEUs), and, in some cases, graduate credit. For 
more details about each course, course costs, application deadlines, and 
credits earned, visit our website http://SMConservation.gmu.edu and click on 
"upcoming courses" or email us at  
scbitrain...@si.edu.

Apply now-some application deadlines are approaching quickly!

Stakeholder-Driven Scenario Models for Strategic Conservation Planning
NEW COURSE!! September 11-16, 2017
The scenario planning approach allows us to imagine how land use decisions we 
make today could influence the landscape of tomorrow. Scenarios are storylines 
developed by stakeholders, describing different potential futures. When linked 
to land use, socio-economic, and environmental data, these scenarios can help 
us identify trade-offs or synergies between environmental health and human 
well-being. This project-based course provides practitioners and advanced 
students a conceptual and practical understanding of the intersection of 
scenario planning and land use modeling in the context of natural resource and 
environmental planning. This intensive 6-day fulltime residential session 
incorporates lectures, discussions, and extensive computer exercises.

Ecology and Conservation of Migratory Birds
September 18-29, 2017
Led by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, this course teaches the most 
current methods in the research of migratory birds including theoretical 
concepts, field and laboratory methods (e.g. mist-netting, banding, tissue 
sampling, stable isotope geochemistry, geolocators and radio telemetry), data 
analysis (including distance sampling and mark-recapture statistics) and 
applied conservation strategies. Participants will be mist-netting and handling 
birds nearly every morning of the course, and will also learn to prepare museum 
voucher study skins.

Spatial Ecology, Geospatial Analysis & Remote Sensing for Conservation
October 16-27, 2017
Learn to use GIS tools to address conservation research problems, quantifying 
effects of human-induced global changes on wildlife and biodiversity. This 
two-week course is taught by the research scientists of Smithsonian 
Conservation Biology Institute's renowned Conservation GIS  lab. Hands-on lab 
exercises (e.g. land cover mapping; home range analysis; modeling habitat 
selection; mapping species distributions) use remote sensing data and SCBI 
field surveys to monitor global changes, assess impacts on wildlife, and 
develop mitigating strategies.

Statistics for Ecology and Conservation Biology
February 12-23, 2018
Gain in-depth knowledge of analysis techniques for cutting-edge ecological 
research, employing R: classical regression models; mixed models; generalized 
linear models; how to deal with the limitations of real datasets; and 
conservation-specific approaches. Participants learn how to choose appropriate 
analyses for different research questions, and about the assumptions underlying 
each model. Through the lectures and hands-on exercises participants learn how 
to design their own studies, explore their data, perform a range of analyses, 
understand fitted models, and clearly explain their results. By the end of the 
course, participants will be able to conduct sophisticated statistical 
analyses, critically evaluate statistics-based material in current research 
literature, and deal with the limitations of real datasets in the context of 
conservation science.

Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation participants engage in dynamic 
learning communities, build lifelong professional networks, and connect with 
valuable conservation resources

[ECOLOG-L] Enroll in Training Courses at SMSC: Sept 2017-Feb 2018

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Graduate/Professional Training - Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation  at 
the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, Virginia, USA
September 2017-February 2018 schedule: our intensive residential courses offer 
continuing education credits (CEUs), and, in some cases, graduate credit. Visit 
course links (below), see our website (http://SMConservation.gmu.edu) or email 
us at scbitrain...@si.edu for more details about 
each course, course costs, application deadlines, and credits earned.  Apply 
now-some application deadlines are approaching quickly!


Stakeholder-Driven Scenario Models for Strategic Conservation 
Planning
NEW COURSE!! September 11-16, 2017
The scenario planning approach allows us to imagine how land use decisions we 
make today could influence the landscape of tomorrow. Scenarios are storylines 
developed by stakeholders, describing different potential futures. When linked 
to land use, socio-economic, and environmental data, these scenarios can help 
us identify trade-offs or synergies between environmental health and human 
well-being. This project-based course provides practitioners and advanced 
students a conceptual and practical understanding of the intersection of 
scenario planning and land use modeling in the context of natural resource and 
environmental planning. This intensive 6-day fulltime residential session 
incorporates lectures, discussions, and extensive computer exercises.

Ecology and Conservation of Migratory 
Birds
September 18-29, 2017
Led by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, this course teaches the most 
current methods in the research of migratory birds including theoretical 
concepts, field and laboratory methods (e.g. mist-netting, banding, tissue 
sampling, stable isotope geochemistry, geolocators and radio telemetry), data 
analysis (including distance sampling and mark-recapture statistics) and 
applied conservation strategies. Participants will be mist-netting and handling 
birds nearly every morning of the course, and will also learn to prepare museum 
voucher study skins.

Spatial Ecology, Geospatial Analysis & Remote Sensing for 
Conservation
October 16-27, 2017
Learn to use GIS tools to address conservation research problems, quantifying 
effects of human-induced global changes on wildlife and biodiversity. This 
two-week course is taught by the research scientists of Smithsonian 
Conservation Biology Institute's renowned Conservation GIS  lab. Hands-on lab 
exercises (e.g. land cover mapping; home range analysis; modeling habitat 
selection; mapping species distributions) use remote sensing data and SCBI 
field surveys to monitor global changes, assess impacts on wildlife, and 
develop mitigating strategies.

Camera Trapping Tools for Landowners 
Workshop
November 4-5, 2017
This new (non-credit) weekend workshop is designed for local landowners looking 
to have all their camera trapping questions answered. Participants spend two 
days with Smithsonian Wildlife Ecologist Joe Kolowski who has spent years using 
trail cameras to study wildlife around the globe. The workshop is a mix of 
field activities, demonstrations, and interactive lectures and includes: 1) a 
review of current camera models, providing guidance for purchase decisions; 2) 
practice in use and setup of a range of trail cameras in the field, including 
tips for optimal placement for a wide range of species and scenarios, 3) 
highlights from local and international camera trapping research; 4) local 
options for getting involved in camera trapping research; and get advice 
specific to their own properties and interests.

Statistics for Ecology and Conservation 
Biology
February 12-23, 2018
Gain in-depth knowledge of analysis techniques for cutting-edge ecological 
research, employing R: classical regression models; mixed models; generalized 
linear models; how to deal with the limitations of real datasets; and 
conservation-specific approaches. Participants learn how to choose appropriate 
analyses for different research questions, and about the assumptions underlying 
each model. Through the lectures and hands-on exercises participants learn how 
to design their own studies, explore their data, 

[ECOLOG-L] FW: Upcoming Training Courses at SMSC: May-Sept 2017

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Please Post and Share Widely!



Graduate/Professional Training at Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation

The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation offers unique, intensive 
residential training courses hosted in our sustainably-built Academic Center on 
the grounds of Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, 
Virginia, USA. Continuing education/graduate credits. May-October 2017 schedule 
below: visit http://SMConservation.gmu.edu for more information about each 
course.


Field Recording and Analysis of Biological Sounds for Research and 
Conservation

May 1-12, 2017-NEW COURSE!!

Spaces still available: Applications accepted until MARCH 30-Apply NOW!!

Acoustic recording and monitoring now are mainstream tools for biological 
research and conservation, used to explore biology of acoustically active 
animals in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Recording equipment and 
software for analyzing animal sounds are readily available, but few 
opportunities exist for biologists to learn appropriate use of the equipment 
and software together. This course fills that training gap. In two-weeks of 
long field-and-lab days, participants make and document high-quality recordings 
under varying conditions and address research and conservation questions by 
using acoustic analysis software to visualize/extract recording information. 
Collaboratively taught by Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Smithsonian, and George 
Mason researchers, participants learn practical techniques for acquiring and 
analyzing animal sound recordings under real-world field conditions. This 
hands-on training focuses on bioacoustics, principally with Raven Pro sound 
analysis software (course fee includes student license): course modules also 
discuss soundscape theory, the emerging field of ecological acoustics, and 
other acoustics software platforms.



Essentials of Open Source 
GIS
June 5-9, 2017
Spaces still available-Apply Now!
GIS, GPS, satellite imagery, and mapping are essentials in the toolboxes of 
researchers, natural resource managers, and conservationists. However, the use 
of these technologies is often limited because of a lack of access to expensive 
and specialized software.  This one-week course focuses on freely available 
open-source GIS software and tools that can be modified and freely 
redistributed.  Combining lectures with computer tutorials, the course covers 
essential concepts, quickly and effectively getting practitioners started with 
open-source geospatial analysis tools, including QGIS and R.


Stakeholder-Driven Scenario Models for Strategic Conservation 
Planning
September 11-16, 2017-NEW COURSE!!
The Scenario planning approach allows us to imagine how land use decisions we 
make today could influence the landscape of tomorrow. Storylines developed by 
stakeholders, scenarios describe potential alternate futures. If linked to land 
use, socio-economic, and environmental data, scenarios can help identify 
trade-offs or synergies between environmental health and human well-being. 
Project-based, this 6-day modeling course provides a conceptual and practical 
understanding of the intersection of scenario planning and land use modeling in 
the planning context.


Additional Upcoming Courses:

* Practical Zoo Nutrition 
Management
 (June 5-9, 2017: Full-no longer accepting 2017 applications)

* Camera Trapping Study Design and Data Analysis for Occupancy and 
Density 
Estimation
 (June 19-30, 2017)

* Ecology and Conservation of Migratory 
Birds
 (September 18-29, 2017)

* Spatial Ecology, Geospatial Analysis & Remote Sensing for 
Conservation
 (October 16-27, 2017)


Check out Smithsonian's Earth Optimism Summit, April 21-23, 2017: 
https://earthoptimism.si.edu/

[ECOLOG-L] Term Assistant Professor in Conservation Biology: Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation

[NZP-SCBI Training]

George Mason University seeks a Conservation Biologist for a full-time, Term 
Instructional position for the 2017-18 academic year (12-month appointment, 
renewable) to participate in the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation 
(SMSC) (http://smconservation.gmu.edu). The position will be based at the 
Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) in Front Royal, VA 
(https://nationalzoo.si.edu/conservation).

In this unique immersive teaching framework, the successful applicant will work 
as part of a team of core faculty to provide instruction for a diverse 
portfolio of academic programming including the Smithsonian-Mason Semester for 
Conservation Studies, an in-residence program for undergraduate students based 
at SCBI. Students spend 16 weeks participating in intensive, interdisciplinary, 
field and lab-intensive coursework. This program focuses on building 
conservation-related skills and professional development opportunities for 
students interested in becoming conservation professionals. Faculty should 
expect to engage in at least 16-20 contact hours with students weekly.

Additional duties will include continued planning for the undergraduate 
program, and may include opportunities to develop new courses in the 
applicant's area of expertise, as well as planning and instructional activities 
to support SMSC's graduate/professional program and programming for high 
school, undergraduate, and international audiences.

Position requirements include a Ph.D., a demonstrated dedication to teaching, 
and professional experience in a conservation-oriented field that will 
intersect with and add diversity to current programming and courses (see 
courses at http://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/). Review of applications 
begins March 5, 2017, and will continue until the position is filled. The start 
date for this position is June 1, 2017 or earlier. For full consideration, 
please apply online at http://jobs.gmu.edu, position 
number F112AZ, complete the online faculty application, and attach a cover 
letter, CV, contact information for at least 3 references, and a teaching vita 
that includes a teaching philosophy and summary of evaluations and course 
development work.

Information about SMSC may be obtained at http://smconservation.gmu.edu or by 
contacting Dr. Geoff Birchard, gbirc...@gmu.edu.

[ECOLOG-L] Statistics for Ecology & Cons Bio: SMSC course starts 2/27--Apply Now!

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Graduate/Professional Training - Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, 
Front Royal, VA, USA

Statistics for Ecology and Conservation 
Biology
February 27-March 10, 2017Spaces still available-apply now!
Gain in-depth knowledge of analysis techniques for cutting-edge ecological 
research, employing R: classical regression models; mixed models; generalized 
linear models; how to deal with the limitations of real datasets; and 
conservation-specific approaches. Participants learn how to choose appropriate 
analyses for different research questions, and about the assumptions underlying 
each model. Through the lectures and hands-on exercises participants learn how 
to design their own studies, explore their data, perform a range of analyses, 
understand fitted models, and clearly explain their results. By the end of the 
course, participants will be able to conduct sophisticated statistical 
analyses, critically evaluate statistics-based material in current research 
literature, and deal with the limitations of real datasets in the context of 
conservation science. Some prerequisites. For details, visit Statistics for 
Ecology and Conservation 
Biology

Additional Upcoming Courses:

  *   Non-Invasive Techniques and Applications in Wildlife 
Endocrinology
 (March 13-24, 2017) New Course!
  *   Field Recording and Analysis of Biological Sounds for Research and 
Conservation
 (May 1-12, 2017) New Course!
  *   Practical Zoo Nutrition 
Management
 (June 5-9, 2017)
  *   Camera Trapping Study Design and Data Analysis for Occupancy and Density 
Estimation
 (June 19-30, 2017)

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate/Professional Training 2017: Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Please Post and Circulate


Graduate/Professional Training - Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation


The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, a partnership between George 
Mason University and the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI), is 
offering a full schedule of unique, intensive residential training courses 
hosted in our sustainably-built Academic Center on the grounds of SCBI in Front 
Royal, Virginia. All courses offer continuing education credits (CEUs) and some 
can be taken for graduate credit as well. Visit our website 
(http://SMConservation.gmu.edu) or email us at 
scbitrain...@si.edu for more details about each 
course, course costs, and credits earned.

Statistics for Ecology and Conservation 
Biology
February 27-March 10, 2017

Gain in-depth knowledge of analysis techniques for cutting-edge ecological 
research, employing R: classical regression models; mixed models; generalized 
linear models; generalized additive models; how to deal with the limitations of 
real datasets; and conservation-specific approaches. Participants learn how to 
choose appropriate analyses for different research questions, and about the 
assumptions underlying each model. Through the lectures and hands-on exercises 
participants learn how to design their own studies, explore their data, perform 
a range of analyses, understand fitted models, and clearly explain their 
results. By the end of the course, participants will be able to conduct 
sophisticated statistical analyses, critically evaluate statistics-based 
material in current research literature, and deal with the limitations of real 
datasets in the context of conservation science.


Non-Invasive Techniques and Applications in Wildlife 
Endocrinology
March 13-24, 2017-NEW COURSE!!
The purpose of this new course, taught by the experts at the National Zoo's 
Endocrinology Laboratory, is to provide theoretical information and practical 
experience in using endocrine monitoring techniques for assessing reproductive 
status and welfare in wildlife species, both in captive and wild scenarios. 
Lectures will cover aspects of basic biology, theory of immunoassay 
methodology, reproductive endocrinology and stress physiology, and examples of 
data obtained from in-situ and ex situ studies of wildlife species. Extensive 
lab work will include demonstrations and hands-on experience in sample (urine 
and feces) processing and analysis using enzyme immunoassay technology. 
Computer lab sessions will include basic and advanced data analysis techniques. 
Participants will also work on independent group projects where they will apply 
what they have learned and complete a full lab analysis and data interpretation 
themselves. A comprehensive endocrine training manual will be provided to 
course participants.


Field Recording and Analysis of Biological Sounds for Research and 
Conservation
May 1-12, 2017-NEW COURSE!

Acoustic recording and monitoring have become mainstream tools for biological 
research and conservation. Increasingly, acoustic recordings are used to 
address a variety of basic and applied questions about the biology of birds, 
anurans, bats, insects, marine mammals, fish, and other acoustically active 
taxa. Although the equipment for recording and software for analyzing animal 
sounds are more readily available than ever before, few opportunities exist for 
biologists to learn how to use the equipment and software appropriately.  The 
course is intended for scientists at any career stage, including students, 
interested in applying bioacoustic methods to basic and applied research in 
fields such as behavioral ecology, taxonomy, distribution, and conservation 
biology of birds, anurans, bats, insects, marine mammals, fish, and other 
acoustically active taxa.


Additional Upcoming Courses:

* Practical Zoo Nutrition 
Management
 (June 5-9, 2017)

* Camera Trapping Study Design and Data Analysis for Occupancy and 
Density 
Estimation
 (June 19-30, 2017)

[ECOLOG-L] Training Course in Statistical Downscaling approaches for researchers and managers: Scholarships Available!

[NZP-SCBI Training]

PROFESSIONAL TRAINING COURSE
Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation

STATISTICAL DOWNSCALING of GLOBAL CLIMATE MODELS in SDSM 5.2
December 12-16, 2016
The Statistical DownScaling Model (SDSM) is a freely available software tool 
that facilitates the rapid development of multiple, low-cost, single-site 
scenarios of daily surface weather variables under present and future climate 
forcing. This course trains on the use and application of this decision support 
tool for assessing local climate change impacts, and is taught by professionals 
currently using this technique in their own research. The course progresses 
from download and management of site-specific climate data, to development of 
future scenarios of climate change based on global models, and finally to 
downscaling techniques including quality control and data transformation; 
screening of downscaling predictor variables; model calibration; weather 
generators; analysis and graphing of observed and downscaled data; frequency 
analysis; scenario generation; and time series analysis. The course will be led 
by Dr. Adam Fenech, Director of the Climate Lab at the University of Prince 
Edward Island; Dr. Christian Dawson, Department of Computer Science, 
Loughborough University; and Dr. Robert Wilby, Professor of Hydroclimatic 
Modelling at Loughborough University. Drs. Dawson and Wilby are co-developers 
of SDSM.

Additional Upcoming Courses:
   
. Non-Invasive Techniques in Wildlife Endocrinology (March 13-24, 2017)
. Practical Zoo Nutrition Management (June 5-9, 2017)

A number of full scholarships are available for all qualified applicants to 
this course, and reduced fees are available to applicants from less-developed 
nations. The application deadline is October 3, 2016. Visit our website 
(http://SMConservation.gmu.edu) or email us at scbitrain...@si.edu for more 
details about each course, course costs, and credits earned.

[ECOLOG-L] New Professional Training Courses Open for Enrollment: Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Graduate/Professional Training: Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation
Front Royal, Virginia, USA

Visit our website (http://SMConservation.gmu.edu) or email us at 
scbitrain...@si.edu for more details about each course, course costs, and 
credits earned.

The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, a partnership between George 
Mason University and the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI), is 
proud to announce their upcoming course schedule for 2016, and we're excited to 
be offering a number of new courses. All courses are currently either 1- or 
2-week intensive residential courses hosted in our sustainably-built Academic 
Center on the grounds of SCBI in Front Royal Virginia. All courses offer 
continuing education credits (CEUs) and some can be taken for graduate credit 
as well. See our upcoming offerings below and check out our website for more 
course details and pricing. Limited scholarships are available for eligible 
applicants. Note that our lodging and meal plan pricing has recently been 
greatly reduced.

Upcoming Courses:
* Statistics for Ecology and Conservation Biology (February 29 - March 11, 2016)
* Practical Zoo Nutrition Management (April 11-15, 2016) - new!
* Species Monitoring and Conservation: Terrestrial Mammals (May 9-20, 2016)
* Essentials of Open Source GIS (May 23-27, 2016)
* Camera Trapping Study Design and Data Analysis for Occupancy and Density 
Estimation in Latin America (June 20-29, 2016) - new!
* Estimating Animal Abundance and Occupancy (August 15-26, 2016)
* Spatial Ecology, Geospatial Analysis, and Remote Sensing for Conservation 
(October 3-14, 2016)

[ECOLOG-L] SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE - TRAINING: Apply global climate models for local conservation decision making

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Statistical Downscaling of Global Climate Models using SDSM 
5.2
December 7-11, 2015
Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, Front Royal, VA, USA

Global Climate Models indicate that rising concentrations of greenhouse gases 
will have significant implications for climate at global and regional scales. 
Less certain is the extent to which meteorological processes at individual 
sites will be affected, yet potential changes at smaller scales are exactly 
what engineers, consultants and land managers are most concerned with. 
Statistical downscaling is used to bridge the spatial and temporal resolution 
gaps between what climate modelers can currently provide (low resolution, 
course-scale data) and what impact assessors require (high-resolution, 
fine-scale data).

The Statistical DownScaling Model (SDSM) is a freely available software tool 
that facilitates the rapid development of multiple, low-cost, single-site 
scenarios of daily surface weather variables under present and future climate 
forcing. SDSM is the most ubiquitous statistical downscaling software used in 
the scientific literature with over 200+ studies in over 39 countries. This 
course trains on the use and application of this decision support tool for 
assessing local climate change impacts, taught by professionals currently using 
this technique in their own research. The course will be of interest to 
researchers, managers, planners, engineers, consultants and students interested 
in applying global climate model scenarios at the local scale to inform impact 
assessment, planning and risk-management.

The course will include a combination of lectures, case studies and guided 
computer work, and will be led by Dr. Adam Fenech, Director of the Climate Lab 
at the University of Prince Edward Island and Dr. Robert Wilby, Professor of 
Hydroclimatic Modelling at Loughborough University and co-developer of SDSM. 
Time will be provided for participants to give short presentations on their 
current work to get feedback from other participants and instructors.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

*access, quality control, and statistically analyze climate data;

*prepare scenarios of future climate change through ensemble and 
validation techniques;

*download and use the SDSM 5.1.1 software to create a statistical model 
of climate observations for a region of interest;

*create site-specific hi-resolution scenarios of future climate change; 
and

*understand applications of statistically-downscaled model results.

Visit our website at http://SMconservation.gmu.edu for more course details and 
for instructions on how to apply. All courses area held in a new sustainably 
built Academic Quad, including new classrooms, dining commons and residential 
facility. Full scholarships are available to support qualified applicants to 
attend the course. Please apply online before September 28th for full 
consideration. Send us an email at 
scbitrain...@si.edu with any questions you might 
have or check out our 
FAQs.


Additional Upcoming Courses:

*Statistics for Ecology and Conservation 
Biology
 (February 29-March 11, 2016)
*Practical Zoo Nutrition 
Management
 (April 11-15, 2016)
*Species Monitoring and Conservation: Terrestrial 
Mammals
 (May 9-20, 2016)

[ECOLOG-L] Three NEW Professional Training Courses at the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Graduate/Professional Training - Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation

The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, a partnership between George 
Mason University and the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI), is 
offering a full schedule of unique, intensive residential training courses 
hosted in our new, sustainably-built Academic Center on the grounds of SCBI in 
Front Royal Virginia. Most courses can be taken either for graduate credit or 
continuing education units. Limited scholarships are available for eligible 
applicants and reduced fees are now available to applicants from less-developed 
nations. Visit our website (http://SMConservation.gmu.edu) or email us at 
scbitrain...@si.edu for more details about each course, course costs, and 
credits earned.

NEW COURSE: Conservation for Development Professionals: Strategies for 
implementing biodiversity action plans for the private sector (August 10-14, 
2015)
Learn strategies for developing and implementing a Biodiversity Action Plan 
(BAP), particularly as they relate to companies involved in natural resource 
extraction or industrial development; international examples applied at the 
national and site specific levels to manage and conserve habitats and species 
will be a focus. Learn how BAPs relate to other development projects, such as 
the Environmental and Social Impact Assessments, how they improve biological 
knowledge and information, and the role of education and conservation programs.

Ecology and Conservation of Migratory Birds (September 14-25, 2015) 
Led by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, this course teaches the most 
current methods in the research of migratory birds including theoretical 
concepts, field and laboratory methods (e.g. mist-netting, banding, tissue 
sampling, stable isotope geochemistry, geolocators and radio telemetry), data 
analysis (including distance sampling and mark-recapture statistics) and 
applied conservation strategies. Participants will be mist-netting and handling 
birds nearly every morning of the course, and will also learn to prepare museum 
voucher study skins.

NEW COURSE: Statistical Downscaling of Global Climate Models in SDSM 5.2 
(December 7-11, 2015)
The Statistical DownScaling Model (SDSM) is a freely available software tool 
that facilitates the rapid development of multiple, low-cost, single-site 
scenarios of daily surface weather variables under present and future climate 
forcing. This course trains on the use and application of this decision support 
tool for assessing local climate change impacts, and is taught by professionals 
currently using this technique in their own research. The course progresses 
from download and management of site-specific climate data, to development of 
future scenarios of climate change based on global models, and finally to 
downscaling techniques including quality control and data transformation; 
screening of downscaling predictor variables; model calibration; weather 
generators; analysis and graphing of observed and downscaled data; frequency 
analysis; scenario generation; and time series analysis.

Additional Upcoming Courses:  
. Practical Zoo Nutrition Management (April 11-15, 2016) - NEW COURSE
. Species Monitoring  Conservation: Terrestrial Mammals (May 9-20, 2016)

[ECOLOG-L] Training Courses: Spring 2015 Offerings at the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Graduate/Professional Training: Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation
At the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia, USA

The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, a partnership between George 
Mason University and the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI), is 
proud to announce their course schedule for the first half of 2015. This is 
shaping up to be a full year, and we are planning to add a number of additional 
courses to the list below, so continue to check our website for updated 
information. All courses are currently either 1- or 2-week intensive 
residential courses hosted in our new, sustainably-built Academic Center on the 
grounds of SCBI in Front Royal Virginia. Most courses can be taken either for 
graduate credit or continuing education units. Limited scholarships are 
available for international applicants. Visit our website 
(http://SMConservation.gmu.edu) or email us at 
scbitrain...@si.edumailto:scbitrain...@si.edu for more details about each 
course, course costs, and credits earned.

Upcoming Courses:
* Statistics for Ecology and Conservation (February 9-20, 2015) - spaces remain 
but must apply now!
* AniMove: Animal Movement Analysis for Conservation (April 13-24, 2015)
* Estimating Animal Abundance and Occupancy (April 27-May 8, 2015)
* Adaptive Management (May 18-22, 2015)
* Conservation Breeding Centers for Wildlife Sustainability (June 1-5, 2015) - 
new course!

[ECOLOG-L] Smithsonian-Mason course in Adaptive Management for Conservation Success

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Graduate and Professional Course
Adaptive Management for Conservation Success
June 6-17, 2011
Smithsonian-Mason Global Conservation Studies Program
At the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA, USA

Visit http://conservationtraining.si.edu or contact 
scbitrain...@si.edumailto:scbitrain...@si.edu for more information


Adaptive Management teaches conservation practitioners and researchers how to 
build their capacity in project design, planning and evaluation. We are teaming 
with Foundations of Success (FOS, www.fosonline.org) to offer this intensive 
course in adaptive management, based on the Conservation Measures Partnership's 
Open Standards for the Practice of Conservation.  You will gain new skills for 
designing, planning and implementing effective projects and for how to provide 
clear evidence of progress towards conservation results. With the help of 
expert coaches, your team uses a real conservation project to practice 
conceptualizing your project, formulating objectives, and demonstrating 
measurable impact. You also learn how to use Miradi adaptive management 
software, which has been adopted by major conservation organizations (e.g., 
TNC, WWF, WCS) and is currently being used by over 1000 nature conservation 
practitioners in more than 147 countries. Participants gain new skills in 
designing, planning and implementing effective projects, and in how to provide 
clear evidence of measurable conservation impact.



The course fee is $2,500, which includes instruction and most course materials 
as well as all meals, lodging, and transport to/from Washington-Dulles 
International Airport (IAD).  All other travel costs and incidental expenses 
are the participant's responsibility. Course participants earn Continuing 
Education Units, or, for qualified applicants, graduate course credits are 
available through George Mason University at additional cost (and upon 
completion of further course requirements).

Smithsonian-Mason Global Conservation Studies Program course participants 
engage in dynamic learning communities, build lifelong professional networks, 
and connect with valuable conservation resources.


Visit http://conservationtraining.si.edu or contact 
scbitrain...@si.edumailto:scbitrain...@si.edu for more information.

[ECOLOG-L] Graduate/Professional Training Courses in Conservation

[NZP-SCBI Training]

[Please post and distribute widely; apologies for cross-posting]

2011 Graduate/Professional Training Courses
Smithsonian-Mason Global Conservation Studies Program, Front Royal, VA
For more information, visit http://conservationtraining.si.edu or e-mail 
scbitrain...@si.edu 


Spatial Ecology, Geospatial Analysis,  Remote Sensing 
March 14-25, 2011   **Deadline for registration: January 28**
Learn to use GIS tools to address conservation research problems, quantifying 
effects of human-induced global change on wildlife and biodiversity. Hands-on 
lab exercises (e.g. land cover mapping; home range analysis; modeling habitat 
selection; mapping species distributions) use remote sensing data and SCBI 
field surveys to monitor global changes, assess impacts on wildlife, and 
develop mitigating strategies.  
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/SCBI/MAB/GMU/spatial.cfm


Species Monitoring  Conservation: Terrestrial Mammals 
April 18-29, 2011
Explore current techniques in assessment and monitoring of wild mammal 
populations, including bats. Participants learn principles of study design; 
current field assessment methods; data analysis techniques including MARK and 
DISTANCE software; application of monitoring data to decision-making and 
population management; and collection and preparation of museum voucher 
specimens. 
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/SCBI/MAB/GMU/terremammals.cfm


Effective Conservation Leadership
May 3-13, 2011  
What makes for a successful conservation leader? Conservation professionals 
need to know more than science to lead effectively. Employing real-life 
environmental and conservation case studies, this course addresses key 
conservation leadership skills, including cross-cultural learning, 
team-building and support, project management, applied conservation ethics, 
effective communication, and conflict resolution.
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/SCBI/MAB/GMU/leadership.cfm


Non-Invasive Genetic Techniques in Wildlife Conservation
May 22-27, 2011
Learn how new developments in non-invasive genetics allow biologists and 
managers to answer questions in animal behavior, population biology and 
population management. Course participants will work through directed research 
projects, from study design through field data collection, sampling protocols, 
and DNA extraction and amplification, to analysis of microsatellite and 
sequence data.
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/SCBI/MAB/GMU/genetics.cfm


Adaptive Management for Conservation Success
June 6-17, 2011 
Working in teams on a real conservation project, participants practice 
conceptualizing projects, formulating objectives and providing evidence of 
conservation results. The course builds skills in designing, planning and 
implementing effective projects, in providing clear evidence of measurable 
conservation impact, and in use of Miradi adaptive management software. 
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/SCBI/MAB/GMU/adaptive.cfm


For information on the Applied Conservation Science Graduate Certificate see:
mccs.gmu.edu/courses/
For information on the Applied Conservation Science Professional Certificate 
see:
www.ocpe.gmu.edu/programs/green/applied_conservation.html

[ECOLOG-L] Conservation Conflict Resolution course, January 2011

[NZP-SCBI Training]

Conservation Conflict Resolution
Graduate and Professional Training Course
January 10-19, 2011
Held at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, Virginia, 
USA
Smithsonian-Mason Global Conservation Studies Program
See http://conservationtraining.si.edu or contact 
scbitrain...@si.edumailto:scbitrain...@si.edu for more information


Conservation Conflict Resolution, an intensive experiential training, is a must 
for anyone addressing conservation conflicts, whether these are conflicts 
between people and wildlife or between people about wildlife or other natural 
resources. To reach conservation goals more effectively, we need to better 
analyze conflict dynamics, anticipate arising conflicts, and reconcile old 
conflicts that may impede new progress. We also need to understand how 
struggles about identity, status, and group recognition affect conservation 
conflicts. Process is critical. By accurately analyzing conflicts to determine 
their root causes and then facilitate appropriate resolution processes, we can 
foster trust and respect among stakeholders and ensure sustainable conservation 
solutions. Designed and led by the co-founders of the Human-Wildlife Conflict 
Collaboration (HWCC), a leading organization in conflict resolution capacity 
building (humanwildlifeconflict.org), the course teaches proven skills, 
strategies, and processes for effectively addressing conservation-related 
conflict, including: using practical models and tools for conducting analysis 
of deep-rooted conflict; designing intervention processes for real-life 
conflict prevention and reconciliation plans; understanding the roles of 
identity and neutrality in conflict transformation; and conflict-transforming 
communication techniques. Course fee: $2,500 (includes meals/ accommodations). 
Earn Continuing Education Units; graduate credits available for qualified 
applicants at additional cost through George Mason University. Visit 
http://conservationtraining.si.edu or contact 
scbitrain...@si.edumailto:scbitrain...@si.edu for more information.


“Approach the course with motivation, diligence, and an open mind and you will 
no longer view conflict as a source of anxiety, but as an opportunity to 
address deep-seated, and often ignored, issues at the heart of every dispute. 
It will make you a better collaborator, a stronger leader, and a more diverse 
researcher.  It did for me!  C. Hester, 2010

[ECOLOG-L] Smithsonian-Mason Global CConservation Studies Program 2011

[NZP-SCBI Training]

[Please post and distribute widely; apologies for cross-posting]

2011

Graduate/Professional Training Courses

Smithsonian-Mason Global Conservation Studies Program, Front Royal, VA

For more information, visit http://conservationtraining.si.edu

or e-mail scbitrain...@si.edu

Conservation Conflict Resolution
January 10-19, 2011
Designed and led by the Human-Wildlife Conflict Collaboration (HWCC), this 
course teaches proven skills, strategies and processes for effectively 
addressing conservation-related conflict. By analyzing conflicts to determine 
root causes and facilitate appropriate resolution processes, we foster trust 
among stakeholders and ensure sustainable solutions.
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/SCBI/MAB/GMU/consconflict.cfm

Statistics for Ecology and Conservation Biology
February 7-18, 2011
Gain in-depth knowledge of analysis techniques for cutting-edge ecological 
research, employing R, including: classical regression models; mixed models; 
generalized linear models; generalized additive models; and 
conservation-specific approaches, e.g. distance sampling and species 
distribution modeling. The course emphasizes real-world analysis and how to 
deal with the limitations of real datasets.
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/SCBI/MAB/GMU/statsecology.cfm

Spatial Ecology, Geospatial Analysis  Remote Sensing
March 14-25, 2011
Learn to use GIS tools to address conservation research problems, quantifying 
effects of human-induced global change on wildlife and biodiversity. Hands-on 
lab exercises (e.g. land cover mapping; home range analysis; modeling habitat 
selection; mapping species distributions) use remote sensing data and SCBI 
field surveys to monitor global changes, assess impacts on wildlife, and 
develop mitigating strategies.
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/SCBI/MAB/GMU/spatial.cfm


Species Monitoring  Conservation: Terrestrial Mammals
April 18-29, 2011
Explore current techniques in assessment and monitoring of wild mammal 
populations, including bats. Participants learn principles of study design; 
current field assessment methods; data analysis techniques including MARK and 
DISTANCE software; application of monitoring data to decision-making and 
population management; and collection and preparation of museum voucher 
specimens.
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/SCBI/MAB/GMU/terremammals.cfm



Effective Conservation Leadership
May 3-13, 2011
What makes for a successful conservation leader? Conservation professionals 
need to know more than science to lead effectively. Employing real-life 
environmental and conservation case studies, this course addresses key 
conservation leadership skills, including cross-cultural learning, 
team-building and support, project management, applied conservation ethics, 
effective communication, and conflict resolution.
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/SCBI/MAB/GMU/leadership.cfm


For information on the Applied Conservation Science Graduate Certificate see:
mccs.gmu.edu/courses/
Smithsonian-Mason Global Conservation Studies Program course participants 
engage in dynamic learning communities, build lifelong professional networks, 
and connect with valuable conservation resources