Background
Trait-based approaches are emerging as hot ideas of how to model phytoplankton, zooplankton, and fish communities.
The trait-based approach allows us to tackle the complexity of marine ecosystems in simple models. Rather than considering species per se, individual organisms are characterized by a few essential traits that describe the ensemble properties of the many species.
Further simplifying principles can be derived because individuals optimize their fitness, which is the principle by which properties of communities and ecosystems emerge.
Purpose
The purpose of the workshop is to review state of the art, spur discussions and develop new ideas of trait based approaches in marine ecology and to define future research avenues through the gathering of active researchers in the field.
Invited speakers will catalyze the discussions. Expected number of participant is 60.
Keynote speakers
Stephanie Dutkiewicz, MIT, USA
Mark Ohman, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, USA
Colleen Webb, Colorado State University, USA
Kai Wirtz, Institute of Coastal Research, Germany
Daniel Falster, Macquarie University, Australia
Simon Jennings, Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science, UK
How to apply
Application for participation will open January 1st 2013 with a deadline of June 1st.
We intend to have a balanced mixture of young and more established scientists, including students.
Funding
We have secured funds to cover workshop fee, meals, and partly or fully accommodation for all participants. Actual funding level not yet fixed.
For full details, see the workshop's website or poster (pdf document)