Project Overview
Mapping Arctic Vegetation and Ecosystems Using Imagery from Drones and Satellites
Department(s)
Geography
Environmental Studies
Abstract
This research experience involves work on two related projects that use remote sensing imagery to examine Arctic ecosystem change. One project combines computer vision Artificial Intelligence algorithms to map individual plants in tundra and boreal forest ecosystems. The second project is focused on understanding how expanding beaver distributions affect methane emissions and other biogeochemical processes in Alaskan ecosystems. The role of the student researcher is somewhat felxible, and may depend on their interests and skills. Potential activities include, but are not limited to, collection and processing of drone imagery and field validation data, preparation of drone imagery for analysis, and mapping beaver ponds in satellite images.
Student Qualifications
The ideal applicant will have taken GIS and an introductory natural science course focused on the environment. Knowledge of either the Python or R programming languages would be advantageous.
Number of Student Researchers
1 student
Project Length
10 weeks