High resolution mapping of invasive aquatic vegetation by Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV)

AUT is the leading university in New Zealand for application of unmanned aerial vehicles in conservation. A scholarship is available for doctoral research entitled "High resolution mapping of invasive aquatic vegetation by Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV)".

A new opportunity for doctoral research has arisen to map and monitor the distribution of submerged plants and test hypotheses about the distribution and growth of native aquatic plants and invasive weeds. The project will involve creating a spectral library for submerged aquatic plants, and spatial mapping of their distribution using remote sensing multispectral imagery from satellite and UAV platforms. Ground-truthing will involve SCUBA surveys and so the successful applicant must be capable of performing underwater research work. Experience or interest in remote sensing and/or aquatic plants/seaweeds are also required.

The successful applicant will be supervised by a team led by Associate Professor W. Lindsey White.

This scholarship is for an annual stipend of NZ$25,000 (tax free) for three years.