CDSAI leads the conversation at the New Zealand Aquaculture Conference
In October, researchers and academics from Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington’s Centre for Data Science and AI (CDSAI) attended the New Zealand Aquaculture Conference and workshops in Nelson. The conference united a consortium of data science researchers with industry experts, where the benefits of AI integration into the Aotearoa New Zealand aquaculture industry were discussed.
The Data Science for Aquaculture Programme Workshop convened on 8 October 2024, bringing together experts from the Cawthron Institute, Plant & Food Research, Nelson AI, University of Otago, University of Canterbury, University of Auckland, and more.
The workshop featured presentations from several academics showcasing the cutting-edge developments in their respective fields and providing an overview of past achievements, current initiatives, and future directions.
Professor Mengjie Zhang, CDSAI Director, outlined the connection between fundamental research in data science, AI and machine learning, and key applied research of CDSAI to aquaculture.
Bing Xue, Deputy Head of School in the School of Engineering and Computer Science at Victoria University of Wellington, presented and discussed themes ranging from harnessing genetic insights for aquaculture to predicting salmon health and performance.
Chris Cornelison of the Cawthron Institute facilitated an engaging discussion exploring the transformative potential of data science and AI in Aotearoa's aquaculture sector.
Following these presentations, attendees engaged in collaborative conversations focusing on forming strategic future research partnerships, funding initiatives, and setting a clear future trajectory. The day concluded with an extensive tour of facilities including Plant & Food Research's finfish facilities, Cawthron's advanced laboratory and Tech Shed, and Aquaculture Park.
This gathering proved invaluable in showcasing the latest advances in data science and AI capabilities while focusing on practical solutions for enhanced farming efficiency and productivity.
This conference provided a platform for the CDSAI team to showcase their innovative research and application themes, fostering meaningful dialogue with industry leaders and aquaculture experts. The overwhelming enthusiasm for data science and AI integration in aquaculture highlighted the sector's transformative potential.
CDSAI takes immense pride in contributing to the sustainable future of aquaculture in Aotearoa New Zealand, and eagerly anticipates the collaborations and innovations that lie ahead.
View the conference page for more information.