Supervisor bio: Dr Richard Boothroyd is a Lecturer in Physical Geography in the School of Environmental Sciences. His research interests include fluvial geomorphology, remote sensing and river-related hazards. His current research uses satellite data to understand the risks that river-related hazards pose to people and infrastructure in dynamic landscapes. He has developed innovative workflows using Google Earth Engine (https://doi.org/10.1002/wat2.1496) and has contributed to international research projects to assess the evolution of global flood hazard and risk (https://www.evoflood.co.uk/index.html).
Email: richard.boothroyd@liverpool.ac.uk
School: Environmental Sciences
Department: Geography and Planning
Module code: N/A
Suitable for students of: Geography, Environmental Sciences, Computer Sciences
Desired experience or requirements: Previous experience using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software would be advantageous (e.g., ArcGIS/QGIS). An interest in learning how to use Google Earth Engine (GEE; https://earthengine.google.com/) will also be needed. The project is 100% computer-based, so can be completed either in person or virtually. The student will require access to GIS software and a stable internet connection when using GEE.
Places available: 2
Start dates: 10 June 2024
Project length: 12 weeks
Virtual option: Yes - virtual, hybrid and in-person options
Project description:
Riparian vegetation influences the hydrological, geomorphological and ecological functioning of river systems. The spatial and temporal distribution of riparian vegetation is well documented along many river corridors in temperate settings (e.g., large European rivers), but comparatively less is known about riparian vegetation dynamics in tropical settings. An opportunity exists to use satellite data to improve this understanding. The project will quantify seasonal to inter-annual changes in riparian vegetation distribution for selected rivers in the Philippines. The project will use Geographical Information Systems (GIS) software and the cloud-based geospatial analysis platform Google Earth Engine (GEE) to map and quantify changes in vegetation using satellite data. The student will gain hands-on experience in applying GIS mapping techniques and processing satellite data. Results from the project will be used to inform future sustainable river management activities designed to reduce flood risk.
Additional requirements: N/A
Back to: Global opportunities