Model Thinking in Ecology
Understanding ecological systems requires the ability to think in terms of models — to identify key processes, evaluate competing hypotheses, and simplify complexity without losing essential dynamics.
This course introduces PhD students to model thinking as a practical tool for exploring ecological questions and refining research ideas.
The course helps students develop the modelling mindset needed to analyse ecological systems. Through hands on examples and guided discussions, participants learn how modelling can reveal the key factors and relationships that drive system behaviour, and how these insights can inform and streamline empirical research.
Structure and Format
The course runs over four years, with one full day workshop each semester. Across this period, students are introduced to eight modelling themes, allowing them to join sessions that best support their research at different stages of their PhD.
Each workshop includes:
- A preparatory session introducing modelling basics, using Julia (with R as an optional alternative).
- A full day seminar exploring a selected ecological theme through multiple modelling approaches.
- Hands on work with provided model notebooks.
- Small group discussions (2–3 students) on how the models relate to participants’ own research.
Students earn 0.5 credits per workshop, up to a total of 4 credits.
Project Work
Students may choose to develop a model related to their research after any workshop. Guidance is available from the course leader, and the project concludes with a mandatory seminar presentation approximately two months later. Completing one project awards 2 additional credits
Credits: 6 hp (4 hp for seminars, 2 hp for project work)
For more information and course registration contact the the course leader:
Jon Norberg (jon.norberg@su.se)
Last updated: 2026-10-13
Source: Department of Zoology