Mathematics and Statistics projects
Projects for 2024/2025
Here are the projects available.
200 - Bioacoustic Surveying methods
Acoustic monitoring potentially enables us to detect the presence of species that are hard to spot with other methods, for example, because they are cryptic or rare. Collecting the data is relatively simple: acoustic recorders can be left in the environment and record the soundscape over relatively long periods of time. However, turning the recordings into useful information about the presence/absence of different species and potentially even estimates of abundance requires machine learning methods together with an understanding of how to deploy the recorders in an environment.
In this project, we will explore how sounds produced by some of our wildlife are transmitted through forested habitats. This will allow us to confidently design sampling protocols to use this technology. In doing so, we have the opportunity to learn something about species of conservation concern, here ruru/morepork and pekapeka/short-tailed bats.
Supervisor
202 - Analysis of point particle trajectories in periodic duct flow
The project will involve using Lagrangian particle tracking to model point particle motion in periodic duct flow. Working with Brendan Harding in the school of mathematics and statistics, the summer research scholar will develop numerical tools to simulate particle motion and then utilise dynamical systems theory and techniques to analyse particle motion. This work will help to inform what particle behaviour can be expected in periodic duct flows in the absence of perturbing forces. There are opportunities for extensions to this work involving active point particles or the application of simple inertial lift models from the literature.
Supervisor
