Introduction to Analytical Paleobiology: Fossil Record Biases, Diversity, & Biogeography

Dates

ONLINE, 13-17 February 2023

 

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, this course will be held online

 

Course overview

This course will provide a complete guide to basic analytical techniques for examining macroevolutionary and biodiversity patterns using online databases (primarily The Paleobiology Database), from instruction on data collection, handling, and curation, to plotting and publishing results. First, we will cover the theory behind the structure of the fossil record and how paleodiversity information is generated and inherently biased by geological and anthropogenic processes. We will discuss how to outline these processes, recognise the biases, incorporate these information in our datasets, convert the data into analysable formats, and visualise them. Then, we will expand on this foundation by talking about modelling techniques used in analytical paleobiology, going through the different options for analytical approaches and linking them with hypothesis testing.

Course format

There will be several opportunities to introduce and use your own data, and therefore to develop plans for carrying out your own analyses. The course will be very interactive and will come with code, with a combination of quick quizzes, supervised sessions, independent hands-on sessions, and brief group discussions.

Prerequisites

We assume some basic experience with the R coding language.

Program

 

Monday– Classes from 2-8 PM Berlin time

 

Introduction


Introduction to analytical paleobiology and studies of past diversity and biogeography


Types of fossil data and databases


The Paleobiology Database (PBDB)


Introduction to the PBDB, available data, functionality, and limitations


Practical: Walk through of the PBDB and exploration of possible analyses

 


Cost overview

Package 1

 

480 €


Should you have any further questions, please send an email to info@physalia-courses.org

Cancellation Policy:

 

> 30  days before the start date = 30% cancellation fee

< 30 days before the start date= No Refund.

 

Physalia-courses cannot be held responsible for any travel fees, accommodation or other expenses incurred to you as a result of the cancellation.