Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) Training
Date: Sunday November 10, 2013
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Cost: $20.00*
*Pre-registration is required for this event thorugh the Entomology 2013 registration site.

RCR training is critical for excellence, as well as public trust, in science and engineering.  Consequently, education in RCR is considered essential in the preparation of future scientists and engineers.  Click here for more information about this function.

Insect Macrophotography Workshop
Date: Sunday, November 10
Time: 1:15 – 5:15 PM
Cost: $12
Requirement: Own camera equipment

This workshop will begin with a brief introduction to the basics of macro photography. In this section we will discuss the technical aspects of macrophotography and equipment as well as cover more the more artistic aspects of composition, lighting, and exposure. We will also look at a number of images and discuss how these images were made. Together, these discussions will provide a solid foundation for macrophotography technique, covering beginners to experts.

In the next section, participants will be bused to a UT field station to spend two hours in the field putting these techniques into practice. We will practice a number of techniques as well as have the opportunity to photograph a wide array of the central Texas insect fauna – so bring your gear! Bottled water will be provided and restrooms are available on site. We will finish the day discussing advanced macrophotography techniques such as the use of studio lighting and controlled backgrounds, backlighting, and focus stacking. Finally we will hold an anonymous image review and critique session.

This workshop is designed for you to make the most out of any camera and skill level and to also provide experience photographing insects in the field. The workshop is open to any registered conference attendee. Any skill and equipment level is welcomed, we only require that participants bring their own camera.
 

Brackenridge Field Laboratory
Date: Monday, November 11, 2013
Time: 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Price: $53.00 per person including a boxed lunch

Brackenridge Field Laboratory (BFL) is a premier urban field research station for studies in biodiversity, ecosystem change and natural history.  The lab is of critical importance to The University of Texas at Austin’s top-ten ranked Ecology, Evolution and Behavior graduate program. As an urban field lab, BFL is unsurpassed in regard to historical data, access for students and faculty (only a few minutes from the University of Texas campus), and diversity of habitats. Research at the lab contributes to our understanding of climate change, invasive species, biodiversity, genomics, animal behavior and evolution.  You will be divided into two groups to tour this great facility and learn more about the research done here.

Westcave Preserve
Date: Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Time: 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Price: $30.00 per person

Westcave Preserve is a natural treasure of the Texas Hill Country possessing unique, majestic beauty and ecological diversity. Located adjacent to the Pedernales River, this 75-acre gem has been providing unique educational experiences for Central Texans since 1974.

Two distinct ecosystems meet on the Preserve, forming a unique opportunity for students of nature and an unexpected experience for visitors exploring the Hill Country.   You will receive a guided hiking tour of the Preserve that combines the opportunity to observe the plants, animals, and geology of the Edwards Plateau with a hike into a cool, sheltered canyon of lush plant life.   Upon returning to Austin, you will be given time on your own to enjoy lunch and shopping in Austin’s Market District. This trendy area of town boasts several restaurants, shops, an iconic Austin record store, an Austin-only bookstore, and a flagship Whole Foods store located on the ground floor of the Whole Foods Worldwide Corporate Offices.

*Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for this tour.