PROJECT
Data science behind broad-scale animal movement analyses
Marine megafauna movement data is increasing at a fast pace and new data science methods are needed
The main goal of this project is to develop computer-based algorithms to assist the collation, storage and analyses of marine megafauna movement at global scale. This exciting project will build on an existing global collaboration of marine researchers with expertise in marine animal movement and will focus on providing assistance for data manipulation, database construction, and automation of algorithms for analyses.
This project will be most suitable for a student who has graduate in Computer or Data Science, who has a strong interest in the marine environment and affinity for marine megafauna, such as sharks, whales, turtles and penguins.
As part of this project the successful PhD applicant will:
- lead the development of an online portal for data collation, curation and visualization working with a large number of researchers from around the world, and for automation of the algorithms for the analyses of animal movement data.
For more background information, see the suggested readings below.
- Suggested readings
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- Sequeira AMM, et al (2018) Convergence of marine megafauna movement patterns in coastal and open oceans. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
- Queiroz, N., Humphries, N.E., Couto, A., Vedor, M., da Costa, I., Sequeira, A.M.M., et al, & Sims, D.W. (2019) Global spatial risk assessment of sharks under the footprint of fisheries. Nature, 572, 461-466
Research team leader: Dr Ana Sequeira
My research interests lie in the development of models to assist understanding the marine environment in support of marine spatial planning and conservation. I like to explore the utility of different modelling tools (statistical models, GIS, complex systems approaches) to address specific questions of relevance for the conservation of marine species and their environment. My current focus is on the analysis of movement tracking data of marine vertebrates at global scale and on understanding how they move and what drives their movement.
Collaborations
- New collaborators are welcome to send an enquiry to the research team leader, a co-supervisor from Computer Science or Data Science would be ideal
- Volunteers for data checking and manipulation are also welcome
How to apply
Interested in becoming part of this project? Complete the following steps to submit your expression of interest:
Step 1 - Check criteria
General UWA PhD entrance requirements can be found on the Future Students website.
Requirements specific to this project:
- The candidate will need to have completed a Honours or Masters degree in Computer or Data Science
- Proficiency in using programming languages (such as C++, C#, Java, Python) and willingness to learn R is essential
- A keen interest in ecological questions and marine megafauna is desirable
- Self-leadership skills and the ability to work in a team is a requirement
- The accepted student will be expected to apply for extramural grants to support their project during their degree
- The student should be comfortable with long-distance travel and field work over extended periods of time.
Step 2 - Submit enquiry to research team leader
Step 3 - Lodge application
After you have discussed your project with the research team leader, you should be in a position to proceed to the next step of the UWA application process: Lodge an application. Different application procedures apply to domestic and international students.
Scholarships
- Domestic students
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All domestic students may apply for Research Training Program and University Postgraduate Awards (UPA) scholarships
- International students
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A range of scholarships are available from international organisations and governments. The full list, organised by country, is available on the Future Students website.
In addition, all international students may apply for International Research Training Program scholarships.
- Indigenous students
- Indigenous students are encouraged to apply for Indigenous Postgraduate Research Supplementary Scholarships.
- Forrest Foundation scholarships
- All international and Australian students who wish to study towards the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at The University of Western Australia may apply for Forrest Scholarships.
