Build critical analytical skills in R and AI modeling for ecological research at SMSC

[NZCBI-SCBI Training]

SMSC is excited to announce our schedule of upcoming graduate/professional courses at SMSC, all of which focus on coding-based analytical skills for ecologists. The application deadline for our newest program (CV4E) which focuses on Artificial Intelligence and Computer Vision approaches for ecological research, is fast approaching (June 13). Note that this course has additional application requirements.  We have full scholarships available and those interested in scholarships should apply early. You will be able to indicate interest in competing for a scholarship when you apply, and your statement of interest will serve as the core of your scholarship application. If you have additional questions after reviewing the course web page, please contact: SCBITr...@si.edu

 

GIS in R: Fundamentals and applications for ecologists - ONLINE

Website: https://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/graduate-and-professional/gis-ol/

Dates: August 24 – October 18, 2026

Cost: 600.00 USD (full scholarships available for eligible applicants)

Deadline: July 21, 2026

Scholarship eligibility: Citizens of countries outside the US, Canada and Europe

Format: This course is taught in an asynchronous format over 8 weeks, with at least 2 weekly opportunities for live feedback and instructor interaction over Zoom. This format allows for maximum flexibility for participants juggling complicated work schedules, classes and other commitments.

 

Animal Space Use and Movement Analysis - ONLINE

Website: https://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/graduate-and-professional/animal_movement-ol/

Dates: October 19 – December 13, 2026

Cost: 600.00 USD (full scholarships available for eligible applicants)

Deadline: September 7, 2026

Scholarship eligibility: Citizens of countries outside the US, Canada and Europe

Format: This course is taught in an asynchronous format over 8 weeks, with at least 2 weekly opportunities for live feedback and instructor interaction over Zoom. This format allows for maximum flexibility for participants juggling complicated work schedules, classes and other commitments.

Computer Vision Methods for Ecology (CV4E)

Website: https://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/graduate-and-professional-2/cv4ecology/

Dates: January 13-29, 2027

Cost: 2,823.60 USD 

Deadline: June 13, 2026

Scholarship eligibility: Citizens of countries outside the US, Canada and Europe

Format: CV4E is a hybrid format, full-immersion course, composed of classroom training and hands-on projects with one-on-one mentorship. Three days of live online coursework will be followed by 2-weeks at our campus in Front Royal, VA. Participants will arrive with data they have collected to address an ecological research question. Leading up to the class, instructors will help students get their data prepared for the CV techniques they will experiment with. Across the two weeks in person, students will listen to lectures, hear from guest speakers, participate in group activities, and have dedicated work sessions in small groups with a dedicated instructor.