As part of an NSF-funded Thematic Collections Network award, in mid-May the American Museum of Natural History will be offering a 2-week course dealing with the fundamentals of specimen databasing and how the tools used in this process can facilitate research in biology:
Title: Specimen-level informatics and its relationship to collections-based research
Goals: Train students in best practices for specimen-level data management from the field to preserved collections and ways these methods can facilitate addressing research questions
Learning Objectives:
- Gain familiarity with the tools used in specimen data capture
- Learn how these tools may serve as a valuable adjunct to student research
- Gain familiarity with the relevant literature on specimen databasing
- Engage in actual application of the software tools using data derived from student research
Student Qualifications: Advanced undergraduate or graduate student involved in specimen-based research
Dates: May 13-24, 2013
Daily Schedule: Lecture: 9:00-12:00; Break: 12:00-1:00; “Lab” time: 1:00-3:00
How to Apply:
Submit 1) a one-page CV, 2) a one-paragraph (300 word maximum) description of your current or planned research and how this course would benefit your research, and 3) a statement of your financial needs by March 15, 2013, to amnhspecimendata@gmail.com
Eligibility: Must be enrolled in a degree program at a U.S. institution at the advanced undergraduate or graduate level.
Class size is limited to 20 students. Students will receive a Certificate of Completion from the Richard Gilder Graduate School. Students are required to bring their own laptops and will be asked to install Arthropod Easy Capture, a MySQL, PhP application, prior to arrival. Technical support will be provided for installation. Housing will be provided for students from outside the New York City metropolitan area.
Contact: amnhspecimendata@gmail.com
