Objective Conservation biologists work hard to prevent species extinction and rely on robust quantitative methods to achieve these ends. Decision frameworks allow assessment of alternate management strategies for threatened species, and may rely on simulated population models where data are unavailable or unreliable. Bayesian inference can be used to inform decision frameworks, and has come to the attention of many biologists because the Baye’s approach allows expert opinion or informed priors to update models where data are otherwise unavailable. These require further testing, and this is often difficult where data for long-lived species are difficult to collect. Here I will use short-lived soil mite (Sancassania berlesei) populations in a laboratory environment to replicate subpopulations critically endangered black rhino (Diceros bicornis). By confronting Bayesian models with real data, I hope to test the robustness of priors in Bayesian models, compare this approach to more traditional frequentist approaches and gain insight into the usefulness of Bayesian in decision-making. I propose to take this further and use the knowledge gained to develop and configure a decision making framework for the management of black rhino populations across southern Africa. Fields of science natural sciencesmathematicsapplied mathematicsstatistics and probabilitybayesian statistics Programme(s) FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Topic(s) FP7-PEOPLE-2009-IIF - Marie Curie Action: "International Incoming Fellowships" Call for proposal FP7-PEOPLE-2009-IIF See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MC-IIF - International Incoming Fellowships (IIF) Coordinator IMPERIAL COLLEGE OF SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY AND MEDICINE EU contribution € 174 240,80 Address SOUTH KENSINGTON CAMPUS EXHIBITION ROAD SW7 2AZ LONDON United Kingdom See on map Region London Inner London — West Westminster Activity type Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Administrative Contact Brooke Alasya (Ms.) Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Total cost No data