UNIGOU REMOTE - AVAILABLE TOPICS
Czech Technical University in Prague, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Department of Landscape Water Conservation
Hydrological Performance of Multi-Layered Constructed Soils
Topic Overview:
The applicant will join the project that focuses on layered soil systems of the blue-green infrastructure. The aim is to elucidate the role of layering on hydrological processes (infiltration, drainage, evapotranspiration) in the system of an intensive green roof. The experiment is running on 18 soil rhizoboxes in the open-air laboratory at the roof of the building of the Faculty of Civil Engineering of the Czech Technical University in Prague. The data from the experiment, which has been in operation since June 2023, will be available to the candidate in real-time. Additionally, the candidate will have access to the web camera that observes the experiment, so despite being remote, the candidate will have a better touch with the site.
Tasks:
The candidate’s task will be to evaluate the extensive datasets from the experiment on 18 soil rhizoboxes (mass, outflow) and the weather station at the site (air temperature & relative humidity, wind speed, solar radiation, precipitation), calculate evapotranspiration and perform basic numerical modelling of the water flow in rhizoboxes.
Requirements:
Applicants should have basic knowledge in the field of Soil Science, Hydrology, Groundwater Hydraulics or related fields. They should also be proficient in MS Excel and have some familiarity with Matlab.
Outcomes:
The expected outcome is a short literature review on the hydrological behaviour of layered soil systems and a report on the data analysis of the monitoring data from the June – December 2023 period. The candidate would also contribute to a research article on the topic.
References:
Literature that touches the various processes in layered soils is e.g.: the capillary barrier effect (Oldenburg and Pruess, 1993), unstable and fingered flow (Hillel and Baker, 1988) preferential root growth (Cejas et al., 2019), bioturbation (Sere et al., 2010), particle trapping (McGechan and Lewis, 2002) and structural air trapping (Latifi et al., 1994).
Cejas, C.M. et al., 2019. Preferential Root Tropisms in 2D Wet Granular Media with Structural
Inhomogeneities. Scientific Reports 9.
Hillel, D., Baker, R.S., 1988. A descriptive-theory of fingering during infiltration into layered soils. Soil Sci
146(1), 51-56.
Latifi, H. et al., 1994. Air entrapment and water infiltration in 2-layered soil column. J Irrig Drain Eng 120(5).
McGechan, M.B., Lewis, D.R., 2002. Transport of particulate and colloid-sorbed contaminants through soil, part1: General principles. Biosyst Eng 83(3), 255-273.
Oldenburg, C.M., Pruess, K., 1993. On numerical modeling of capillary barriers. Water Resour Res 29(4)
Sere, G. et al., 2010. Early pedogenic evolution of constructed Technosols. J Soils Sediments 10(7), 1246-1254.
The applicant will join the project that focuses on layered soil systems of the blue-green infrastructure. The aim is to elucidate the role of layering on hydrological processes (infiltration, drainage, evapotranspiration) in the system of an intensive green roof. The experiment is running on 18 soil rhizoboxes in the open-air laboratory at the roof of the building of the Faculty of Civil Engineering of the Czech Technical University in Prague. The data from the experiment, which has been in operation since June 2023, will be available to the candidate in real-time. Additionally, the candidate will have access to the web camera that observes the experiment, so despite being remote, the candidate will have a better touch with the site.
Tasks:
The candidate’s task will be to evaluate the extensive datasets from the experiment on 18 soil rhizoboxes (mass, outflow) and the weather station at the site (air temperature & relative humidity, wind speed, solar radiation, precipitation), calculate evapotranspiration and perform basic numerical modelling of the water flow in rhizoboxes.
Requirements:
Applicants should have basic knowledge in the field of Soil Science, Hydrology, Groundwater Hydraulics or related fields. They should also be proficient in MS Excel and have some familiarity with Matlab.
Outcomes:
The expected outcome is a short literature review on the hydrological behaviour of layered soil systems and a report on the data analysis of the monitoring data from the June – December 2023 period. The candidate would also contribute to a research article on the topic.
References:
Literature that touches the various processes in layered soils is e.g.: the capillary barrier effect (Oldenburg and Pruess, 1993), unstable and fingered flow (Hillel and Baker, 1988) preferential root growth (Cejas et al., 2019), bioturbation (Sere et al., 2010), particle trapping (McGechan and Lewis, 2002) and structural air trapping (Latifi et al., 1994).
Cejas, C.M. et al., 2019. Preferential Root Tropisms in 2D Wet Granular Media with Structural
Inhomogeneities. Scientific Reports 9.
Hillel, D., Baker, R.S., 1988. A descriptive-theory of fingering during infiltration into layered soils. Soil Sci
146(1), 51-56.
Latifi, H. et al., 1994. Air entrapment and water infiltration in 2-layered soil column. J Irrig Drain Eng 120(5).
McGechan, M.B., Lewis, D.R., 2002. Transport of particulate and colloid-sorbed contaminants through soil, part1: General principles. Biosyst Eng 83(3), 255-273.
Oldenburg, C.M., Pruess, K., 1993. On numerical modeling of capillary barriers. Water Resour Res 29(4)
Sere, G. et al., 2010. Early pedogenic evolution of constructed Technosols. J Soils Sediments 10(7), 1246-1254.
Czech Technical University in Prague, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Department of Urban Design, Town and Regional Planning
Cultural Landscape in the Suburban Area of Large Settlements, Its Signs and Values
Topic Overview:
The main goal of the supervisor's topic is to determine the cultural-historical values and attributes of the cultural landscape in the surroudings of arge cities, which could be devalued due to suburbanization (residential and commercial).
A aparently worthless suburban landscape, at first sight showing no continuity and cultural-historical values or structures, may contain a number of historical landscape structures that manifest themselves in the landscape scene and influence the future organization or growth of the settlement. Although such a cultural landscape seems worthless, it can hide a number of values and structures that can be further used (eg. preserved old roads, along which new construction develops). This dissertation focuses on the cultural and historical values of the landscape, which may be affected by suburbanization.
Tasks:
The report of foreign research into the cultural landscape around large cities. What foreign writings dealing with the landscape affected by suburbanization. How does suburbanization manifest itself in your area and how does it affect the landscape?
Outcomes:
The report about the approach and the protection of cultural and historical values (buildings, attributes, structures,…) in your country.
The main goal of the supervisor's topic is to determine the cultural-historical values and attributes of the cultural landscape in the surroudings of arge cities, which could be devalued due to suburbanization (residential and commercial).
A aparently worthless suburban landscape, at first sight showing no continuity and cultural-historical values or structures, may contain a number of historical landscape structures that manifest themselves in the landscape scene and influence the future organization or growth of the settlement. Although such a cultural landscape seems worthless, it can hide a number of values and structures that can be further used (eg. preserved old roads, along which new construction develops). This dissertation focuses on the cultural and historical values of the landscape, which may be affected by suburbanization.
Tasks:
The report of foreign research into the cultural landscape around large cities. What foreign writings dealing with the landscape affected by suburbanization. How does suburbanization manifest itself in your area and how does it affect the landscape?
Outcomes:
The report about the approach and the protection of cultural and historical values (buildings, attributes, structures,…) in your country.
Czech Technical University in Prague, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Department of Urban Design, Town and Regional Planning
Safety in Public Space
Topic Overview:
The dissertation topic aims to analyze and subsequently identify design parameters of public spaces that can influence public security and perceived safety. The goal is to create a methodical procedure for evaluating the quality of public spaces in terms of safety, and to try to create a comprehensive overview of environmental design measures, which, if implememented, can create a safer public areas for people..
Tasks:
The task is to write a report analysing how public safety is viewed in Brazil - what are the existing studies on the topic and what design measures are applied. The approaches found through the research can be presented on a case study example of specific public spaces in your city (country).
Outcomes:
A report analysing Brazil´s approach to designing safe public spaces.
References:
Jacobs, Jane (1961). The Death and Life of Great American Cities; Newman, Oscar. (1972). Defensible Space; Crime Prevention through Urban Design; Coleman, Alice (1985). Design Disadvantagement
The dissertation topic aims to analyze and subsequently identify design parameters of public spaces that can influence public security and perceived safety. The goal is to create a methodical procedure for evaluating the quality of public spaces in terms of safety, and to try to create a comprehensive overview of environmental design measures, which, if implememented, can create a safer public areas for people..
Tasks:
The task is to write a report analysing how public safety is viewed in Brazil - what are the existing studies on the topic and what design measures are applied. The approaches found through the research can be presented on a case study example of specific public spaces in your city (country).
Outcomes:
A report analysing Brazil´s approach to designing safe public spaces.
References:
Jacobs, Jane (1961). The Death and Life of Great American Cities; Newman, Oscar. (1972). Defensible Space; Crime Prevention through Urban Design; Coleman, Alice (1985). Design Disadvantagement
Czech Technical University in Prague, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Department of Urban Design, Town and Regional Planning
Alteration and Rehabilitation of Public Spaces of Original Settlements in Metropolitan Environment
Topic Overview:
The main target of the topic of supervisor is identification of the values of specific public spaces of original small settlements in the large city, metropolis. In this time, we design public space of the city preferably to have an urban character. Howewer strukture of a (large) city isn’t uniform in many cases. They may include public spaces that have been in originall villages before joined to the city. The aim of this dissertation is to find out, if these types of public spaces are still used by citizens at present and if it’s atractivity is connected with it’s ‘rural’ character. To determine mentioned hypotheses the work examines the transformations (in physical structure and way of using) that the mentioned spaces have gone through since the middle of the 20th century to the present day.
Tasks:
Case study of the public space of the original village in the selected (large) city, metropolis. Specifically an analysis of one selected public space, whitch includes:
1. examination of historical documents (maps, descriptions, photograps) and current state of the public space;
2. carrying out a questionnaire survey among local inhabitants;
OR
The wider report on foreign research into the growth of the local cities and their coalescence with neraby villages. Is this fennomen common in your country? Are public spaces of these original villages recognizable in urban structures? Do they have different character the city itself?
Outcomes:
Case study of one selectec public space of original village in (large) city, which will include the report on historical and current state of the space, and the results of a questionnaire survey.
OR
The overall report about the current state of public spaces of original villages in (large) cities in your country.
Notes:
Outline of case study and questionnaire is pre-prepared.
The main target of the topic of supervisor is identification of the values of specific public spaces of original small settlements in the large city, metropolis. In this time, we design public space of the city preferably to have an urban character. Howewer strukture of a (large) city isn’t uniform in many cases. They may include public spaces that have been in originall villages before joined to the city. The aim of this dissertation is to find out, if these types of public spaces are still used by citizens at present and if it’s atractivity is connected with it’s ‘rural’ character. To determine mentioned hypotheses the work examines the transformations (in physical structure and way of using) that the mentioned spaces have gone through since the middle of the 20th century to the present day.
Tasks:
Case study of the public space of the original village in the selected (large) city, metropolis. Specifically an analysis of one selected public space, whitch includes:
1. examination of historical documents (maps, descriptions, photograps) and current state of the public space;
2. carrying out a questionnaire survey among local inhabitants;
OR
The wider report on foreign research into the growth of the local cities and their coalescence with neraby villages. Is this fennomen common in your country? Are public spaces of these original villages recognizable in urban structures? Do they have different character the city itself?
Outcomes:
Case study of one selectec public space of original village in (large) city, which will include the report on historical and current state of the space, and the results of a questionnaire survey.
OR
The overall report about the current state of public spaces of original villages in (large) cities in your country.
Notes:
Outline of case study and questionnaire is pre-prepared.
Czech Technical University in Prague, Masaryk Institute of Advanced Studies
Electromobility and Micromobility
Topic Overview:
Electromobility and micromobility are currently major challenges for changing behavior patterns in transport and in the use of public spaces in cities. Different cities and different states have different support for these new modes of transport, as well as different impacts on public spaces and city life. Not all impacts are necessarily positive and new collisions may occur.
Tasks:
The task of the intern will be to map and document the use of new types of mobility (especially electromobility and micromobility) and their impacts on the functioning of transport, as well as the functioning of public spaces of cities and life in them, in selected territories / cities in Brazil.
Requirements:
No special skills are needed.
Outcomes:
Set of examples of good and bad practice.
References:
Possible readings:
Gehl, J. (2011) Life between buildings: using public space [online]. Washington: Island Press, [cit. 2022-05-05]. Available at: https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/natl-ebooks/detail.action?docID=3317590.
Gehl, J. Gemzøe, L. (1996) Public Spaces. Public Life. Copenhagen: The Danish Architectural Press. ISBN: 978-8774073055.
Kiba-Janiak, M. & Witkowski, J. (2019) Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans: How Do They Work?. Sustainability [online]. 11(17) [cit. 2022-04-16]. ISSN 2071-1050. Available at: doi:10.3390/su11174605
Schrank, D., Eisele, B. And Lomax, T. (2019). 2019 Urban Mobility Report. 1. Texas, USA: The Texas A&M Transportation Institute, INRIX. Available at: https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/61408#tabs-2
Stańczyk, T. L., & Hyb, L. (2019). Technological and organisational challenges for e-mobility. Archiwum Motoryzacji, 84(2), 57–70. Available at: doi:10.14669/AM.VOL84.ART5
Electromobility and micromobility are currently major challenges for changing behavior patterns in transport and in the use of public spaces in cities. Different cities and different states have different support for these new modes of transport, as well as different impacts on public spaces and city life. Not all impacts are necessarily positive and new collisions may occur.
Tasks:
The task of the intern will be to map and document the use of new types of mobility (especially electromobility and micromobility) and their impacts on the functioning of transport, as well as the functioning of public spaces of cities and life in them, in selected territories / cities in Brazil.
Requirements:
No special skills are needed.
Outcomes:
Set of examples of good and bad practice.
References:
Possible readings:
Gehl, J. (2011) Life between buildings: using public space [online]. Washington: Island Press, [cit. 2022-05-05]. Available at: https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/natl-ebooks/detail.action?docID=3317590.
Gehl, J. Gemzøe, L. (1996) Public Spaces. Public Life. Copenhagen: The Danish Architectural Press. ISBN: 978-8774073055.
Kiba-Janiak, M. & Witkowski, J. (2019) Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans: How Do They Work?. Sustainability [online]. 11(17) [cit. 2022-04-16]. ISSN 2071-1050. Available at: doi:10.3390/su11174605
Schrank, D., Eisele, B. And Lomax, T. (2019). 2019 Urban Mobility Report. 1. Texas, USA: The Texas A&M Transportation Institute, INRIX. Available at: https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/61408#tabs-2
Stańczyk, T. L., & Hyb, L. (2019). Technological and organisational challenges for e-mobility. Archiwum Motoryzacji, 84(2), 57–70. Available at: doi:10.14669/AM.VOL84.ART5
Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Department of Spatial Sciences
Plant Vitality Mapping & Soil/Canopy Moisture Assessments Using Earth Observation Data
Topic Overview:
The objective is to set up a methodical workflow for scaling methods on the example of detailed monitoring of plant stress/vitality and moisture content combining different types of remotely sensed (RS) imagery at various scale levels. The aim is to develop methodology and process data in order to (a) obtain information of the current tree/plant species and health condition (stress); (b) detect and repeatedly map biotic and abiotic disturbances; (c) estimate soil/canopy water content; (d) fuse RS data acquired at various altitude-levels in order to manage imagery scaling to achieve the most effective results; (e) and utilize the benefits arising from the use of multi-sensor recording at various spatial scales (satellites, aircrafts, UAVs, and in-situ measurements).
POSSIBLE DATA (depending on specific deal with student):
Sentinel-2 (VNIR+SWIR)
Sentinel-3 (TIR)
Landsat 8,9 (VNIR+SWIR+TIR)
PlanetScope (VNIR)
UAV-borne and airborne (VNIR+TIR)
In-situ climatic sensors
Field surveys + ground data from forest inventories
A specific topic is possible only after agreement with the student (interview needed in advance). The topic is relatively broad and it is possible to choose different methods, different data, different study scales and different target applications.
Tasks:
Comprehensive literature review. Pre-processing and processing of space-, air-, drone-borne data. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of given analysis, relevant discussion of the achieved results. Preparation of the scientific manuscript.
Requirements:
Independence, reliability, enthusiasms, critical thinking. Experience with RS data and techniques (image matching, image analysis, statistical evaluation etc.). Skills with software (e.g. ArcGIS, QGIS, ENVI, SNAP, R..).
Outcomes:
Literature review, Data processed, Draft of the manuscript ready for the submission.
References:
Lausch, A., Erasmi, S., King, D.J., Magdon, P., Heurich, M., 2016. Understanding forest health with remote sensing-Part I-A review of spectral traits, processes and remote-sensing characteristics. Remote Sens. 8, 1–44. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs8121029
Lausch, A., Erasmi, S., King, D.J., Magdon, P., Heurich, M., 2017. Understanding forest health with Remote sensing-Part II-A review of approaches and data models. Remote Sens. 9, 1–33. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs9020129
Seidl, R.; Thom, D.; Kautz, M.; Martin-Benito, D.; Peltoniemi, M.; Vacchiano, G.; Wild, J.; Ascoli, D.; Petr, M.; Honkaniemi, J.; et al. Forest disturbances under climate change. Nat. Clim. Chang. 2017, 7, 395–402.
Senf, C.; Seidl, R.; Hostert, P. Remote sensing of forest insect disturbances: Current state and future directions. Int. J. Appl. Earth Obs. Geoinf. 2017, 60, 49–60.
Li, Z. L., Leng, P., Zhou, C., Chen, K. S., Zhou, F. C., & Shang, G. F. (2021). Soil moisture retrieval from remote sensing measurements: Current knowledge and directions for the future. Earth-Science Reviews, 218, 103673.
Babaeian, E., Sadeghi, M., Jones, S. B., Montzka, C., Vereecken, H., & Tuller, M. (2019). Ground, proximal, and satellite remote sensing of soil moisture. Reviews of Geophysics, 57(2), 530-616.
Notes:
Knowledge of neural networks & deep learning methods is welcomed.
The objective is to set up a methodical workflow for scaling methods on the example of detailed monitoring of plant stress/vitality and moisture content combining different types of remotely sensed (RS) imagery at various scale levels. The aim is to develop methodology and process data in order to (a) obtain information of the current tree/plant species and health condition (stress); (b) detect and repeatedly map biotic and abiotic disturbances; (c) estimate soil/canopy water content; (d) fuse RS data acquired at various altitude-levels in order to manage imagery scaling to achieve the most effective results; (e) and utilize the benefits arising from the use of multi-sensor recording at various spatial scales (satellites, aircrafts, UAVs, and in-situ measurements).
POSSIBLE DATA (depending on specific deal with student):
Sentinel-2 (VNIR+SWIR)
Sentinel-3 (TIR)
Landsat 8,9 (VNIR+SWIR+TIR)
PlanetScope (VNIR)
UAV-borne and airborne (VNIR+TIR)
In-situ climatic sensors
Field surveys + ground data from forest inventories
A specific topic is possible only after agreement with the student (interview needed in advance). The topic is relatively broad and it is possible to choose different methods, different data, different study scales and different target applications.
Tasks:
Comprehensive literature review. Pre-processing and processing of space-, air-, drone-borne data. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of given analysis, relevant discussion of the achieved results. Preparation of the scientific manuscript.
Requirements:
Independence, reliability, enthusiasms, critical thinking. Experience with RS data and techniques (image matching, image analysis, statistical evaluation etc.). Skills with software (e.g. ArcGIS, QGIS, ENVI, SNAP, R..).
Outcomes:
Literature review, Data processed, Draft of the manuscript ready for the submission.
References:
Lausch, A., Erasmi, S., King, D.J., Magdon, P., Heurich, M., 2016. Understanding forest health with remote sensing-Part I-A review of spectral traits, processes and remote-sensing characteristics. Remote Sens. 8, 1–44. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs8121029
Lausch, A., Erasmi, S., King, D.J., Magdon, P., Heurich, M., 2017. Understanding forest health with Remote sensing-Part II-A review of approaches and data models. Remote Sens. 9, 1–33. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs9020129
Seidl, R.; Thom, D.; Kautz, M.; Martin-Benito, D.; Peltoniemi, M.; Vacchiano, G.; Wild, J.; Ascoli, D.; Petr, M.; Honkaniemi, J.; et al. Forest disturbances under climate change. Nat. Clim. Chang. 2017, 7, 395–402.
Senf, C.; Seidl, R.; Hostert, P. Remote sensing of forest insect disturbances: Current state and future directions. Int. J. Appl. Earth Obs. Geoinf. 2017, 60, 49–60.
Li, Z. L., Leng, P., Zhou, C., Chen, K. S., Zhou, F. C., & Shang, G. F. (2021). Soil moisture retrieval from remote sensing measurements: Current knowledge and directions for the future. Earth-Science Reviews, 218, 103673.
Babaeian, E., Sadeghi, M., Jones, S. B., Montzka, C., Vereecken, H., & Tuller, M. (2019). Ground, proximal, and satellite remote sensing of soil moisture. Reviews of Geophysics, 57(2), 530-616.
Notes:
Knowledge of neural networks & deep learning methods is welcomed.
Topic Overview:
As remote sensing (RS) is a crucial source of Earth spatial data at various scales, the ongoing climate change brings novel challenges for RS utilisation. Early detection of biotic infestation at individual trees is crucial; however, calibration and validation protocols of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are still not fully utilised. Satellites are invaluable for delineating the core areas of infestation and studying the spatiotemporal dynamics across large extents. A multi-source approach integrates various platforms (satellites, aircraft, UAVs) and sensors (visible, multispectral, hyperspectral, radar, thermal and even chlorophyll fluorescence) at different scale levels and allows the most reliable complex evaluation. Therefore, the synergy of UAVs and field measurements with satellite data carries a potential for mapping and predicting the ever-increasing biotic outbreaks that have not been fully discovered. The project aims to develop an innovative RS solution linking different data types, which can contribute to more effective detection and monitoring of forest disturbances. The project aims to fill the knowledge gap in remote sensing (RS) data (i) preprocessing and its calibration for the tasks connected with forest disturbances, (ii) detection of bark beetle infestation using close-range RS, and (iii) long-term monitoring of bark beetle spreading using satellites.
REMOTE SENSING DATA:
Sentinel-1 (radar, C-band)
Sentinel-2 (VNIR+SWIR)
Landsat 8,9 (VNIR+SWIR+TIR)
PlanetScope (VNIR)
SkySat (VNIR)
Prisma (VNIR+SWIR+TIR)
UAV-borne and airborne (VNIR+TIR, lidar)
In-situ climatic sensors
Field surveys + ground data from forest inventories
A specific topic is possible only after agreement with the student (interview needed in advance). The topic is relatively broad and it is possible to choose different methods, different data, different study scales and different target applications.
Tasks:
Comprehensive literature review. pre-processing and processing input remote sensing data. Species classification and stress detection using multispectral/hyperspectral/thermal data (to be specified). Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of given analysis, relevant discussion of the achieved results. Preparation of the scientific manuscript.
Requirements:
Independence, reliability, enthusiasms, critical thinking. Experience with remote sensing data and techniques (image matching, image analysis, image spectroscopy, statistical evaluation etc.). Skills with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) and image processing software (e.g., ENVI, eCognition, SNAP). Experience with programming (e.g., Java, R, and python) is an advantage.
Outcomes:
Literature review, data processing, help with manuscript preparation.
References:
Klouček, T., Komárek, J., Surový, P., Hrach, K., Janata, P., Vašíček, B. 2019. The Use of UAV Mounted Sensors for Precise Detection of Bark Beetle Infestation. Remote Sensing, 11, 1561, doi:10.3390/rs11131561.
Lausch, A., Erasmi, S., King, D.J., Magdon, P., Heurich, M., 2016. Understanding forest health with remote sensing-Part I-A review of spectral traits, processes and remote-sensing characteristics. Remote Sens. 8, 1–44. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs8121029
Lausch, A., Erasmi, S., King, D.J., Magdon, P., Heurich, M., 2017. Understanding forest health with Remote sensing-Part II-A review of approaches and data models. Remote Sens. 9, 1–33. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs9020129
Seidl, R.; Thom, D.; Kautz, M.; Martin-Benito, D.; Peltoniemi, M.; Vacchiano, G.; Wild, J.; Ascoli, D.; Petr, M.; Honkaniemi, J.; et al. Forest disturbances under climate change. Nat. Clim. Chang. 2017, 7, 395–402.
Senf, C.; Seidl, R.; Hostert, P. Remote sensing of forest insect disturbances: Current state and future directions. Int. J. Appl. Earth Obs. Geoinf. 2017, 60, 49–60.
As remote sensing (RS) is a crucial source of Earth spatial data at various scales, the ongoing climate change brings novel challenges for RS utilisation. Early detection of biotic infestation at individual trees is crucial; however, calibration and validation protocols of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are still not fully utilised. Satellites are invaluable for delineating the core areas of infestation and studying the spatiotemporal dynamics across large extents. A multi-source approach integrates various platforms (satellites, aircraft, UAVs) and sensors (visible, multispectral, hyperspectral, radar, thermal and even chlorophyll fluorescence) at different scale levels and allows the most reliable complex evaluation. Therefore, the synergy of UAVs and field measurements with satellite data carries a potential for mapping and predicting the ever-increasing biotic outbreaks that have not been fully discovered. The project aims to develop an innovative RS solution linking different data types, which can contribute to more effective detection and monitoring of forest disturbances. The project aims to fill the knowledge gap in remote sensing (RS) data (i) preprocessing and its calibration for the tasks connected with forest disturbances, (ii) detection of bark beetle infestation using close-range RS, and (iii) long-term monitoring of bark beetle spreading using satellites.
REMOTE SENSING DATA:
Sentinel-1 (radar, C-band)
Sentinel-2 (VNIR+SWIR)
Landsat 8,9 (VNIR+SWIR+TIR)
PlanetScope (VNIR)
SkySat (VNIR)
Prisma (VNIR+SWIR+TIR)
UAV-borne and airborne (VNIR+TIR, lidar)
In-situ climatic sensors
Field surveys + ground data from forest inventories
A specific topic is possible only after agreement with the student (interview needed in advance). The topic is relatively broad and it is possible to choose different methods, different data, different study scales and different target applications.
Tasks:
Comprehensive literature review. pre-processing and processing input remote sensing data. Species classification and stress detection using multispectral/hyperspectral/thermal data (to be specified). Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of given analysis, relevant discussion of the achieved results. Preparation of the scientific manuscript.
Requirements:
Independence, reliability, enthusiasms, critical thinking. Experience with remote sensing data and techniques (image matching, image analysis, image spectroscopy, statistical evaluation etc.). Skills with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) and image processing software (e.g., ENVI, eCognition, SNAP). Experience with programming (e.g., Java, R, and python) is an advantage.
Outcomes:
Literature review, data processing, help with manuscript preparation.
References:
Klouček, T., Komárek, J., Surový, P., Hrach, K., Janata, P., Vašíček, B. 2019. The Use of UAV Mounted Sensors for Precise Detection of Bark Beetle Infestation. Remote Sensing, 11, 1561, doi:10.3390/rs11131561.
Lausch, A., Erasmi, S., King, D.J., Magdon, P., Heurich, M., 2016. Understanding forest health with remote sensing-Part I-A review of spectral traits, processes and remote-sensing characteristics. Remote Sens. 8, 1–44. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs8121029
Lausch, A., Erasmi, S., King, D.J., Magdon, P., Heurich, M., 2017. Understanding forest health with Remote sensing-Part II-A review of approaches and data models. Remote Sens. 9, 1–33. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs9020129
Seidl, R.; Thom, D.; Kautz, M.; Martin-Benito, D.; Peltoniemi, M.; Vacchiano, G.; Wild, J.; Ascoli, D.; Petr, M.; Honkaniemi, J.; et al. Forest disturbances under climate change. Nat. Clim. Chang. 2017, 7, 395–402.
Senf, C.; Seidl, R.; Hostert, P. Remote sensing of forest insect disturbances: Current state and future directions. Int. J. Appl. Earth Obs. Geoinf. 2017, 60, 49–60.
Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Department of Spatial Sciences
Fusion of Remote Sensing Data and Techniques for Detection of Forest Disturbances: From Satellites to Needles
Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague, Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Centre for Infectious Animal Diseases
Genetic Bases of SARS-CoV-2 Adaptation to Animals
Topic Overview:
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 showed its ability to infect wide spectrum of different animal species including white-tailed deer, minks, hamsters, great ape, felines etc. Despite during the pandemics, SARS-CoV-2 was mostly transmitted from human-to-human, several cases of human-to-animal, animal-to-animal and animal-to-human transmission were also observed. Moreover, in some cases the SARS-CoV-2 infected animals served as an important secondary reservoir of the virus or as a source of SARS-CoV-2 strains coding for important evolutionary innovations in its genome. Nevertheless, the precise mechanism allowing SARS-CoV-2 adaptation to different animal hosts are still not know. The goal of this project is to collect data and help with statistical analyses which would help us to better understand which SARS-CoV-2 strains are able to replicate more efficiently in different animal hosts.
Tasks:
The intern will collect data from GISAID, the world largest database of SARS-CoV-2 sequences. Special attention will be focused on those SARS-CoV-2 isolates which high quality full genome is known and which were extracted from animals. Full genome sequences of these animal-originating SARS-CoV-2 isolates will be downloaded together with important metadata (animal species, locality, date, virus clade, virus lineage etc.). For comparison, data describing human-originating SARS-CoV-2 isolates circulating in the same date at the same locality will be collected. These data will be compared to search for animal-originating SARS-CoV-2 isolates which are present on the selected locality with higher frequency than could be expected based on SARS-CoV-2 strains circulating in humans. Positive hits indicate that these strains could develop some adaptation to successfully replicated in the selected animal species. Full genome sequences of these positive hits will be compared with other related animal and human extracted SARS-CoV-2 isolates to detect possible mutations which could be responsible for this phenotype.
Requirements:
Required skills – MS Excel or similar (at least on the independent user level). Beneficial skills – R or Phyton.
Outcomes:
The intern(s) will produce a database of full genome sequences of the animal-originating SARS-CoV-2 isolates including important metadata (animal species, locality, date, virus clade, virus lineage etc.) and data describing human-originating SARS-CoV-2 isolates circulating in the same date at the same locality. Further he/she can prepare and test R scripts testing overrepresentation of detected SARS-CoV-2 strains in animal hosts.
References:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-39782-x;
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-020-2342-5;
https://www.science.org/content/article/captive-gorillas-test-positive-coronavirus
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 showed its ability to infect wide spectrum of different animal species including white-tailed deer, minks, hamsters, great ape, felines etc. Despite during the pandemics, SARS-CoV-2 was mostly transmitted from human-to-human, several cases of human-to-animal, animal-to-animal and animal-to-human transmission were also observed. Moreover, in some cases the SARS-CoV-2 infected animals served as an important secondary reservoir of the virus or as a source of SARS-CoV-2 strains coding for important evolutionary innovations in its genome. Nevertheless, the precise mechanism allowing SARS-CoV-2 adaptation to different animal hosts are still not know. The goal of this project is to collect data and help with statistical analyses which would help us to better understand which SARS-CoV-2 strains are able to replicate more efficiently in different animal hosts.
Tasks:
The intern will collect data from GISAID, the world largest database of SARS-CoV-2 sequences. Special attention will be focused on those SARS-CoV-2 isolates which high quality full genome is known and which were extracted from animals. Full genome sequences of these animal-originating SARS-CoV-2 isolates will be downloaded together with important metadata (animal species, locality, date, virus clade, virus lineage etc.). For comparison, data describing human-originating SARS-CoV-2 isolates circulating in the same date at the same locality will be collected. These data will be compared to search for animal-originating SARS-CoV-2 isolates which are present on the selected locality with higher frequency than could be expected based on SARS-CoV-2 strains circulating in humans. Positive hits indicate that these strains could develop some adaptation to successfully replicated in the selected animal species. Full genome sequences of these positive hits will be compared with other related animal and human extracted SARS-CoV-2 isolates to detect possible mutations which could be responsible for this phenotype.
Requirements:
Required skills – MS Excel or similar (at least on the independent user level). Beneficial skills – R or Phyton.
Outcomes:
The intern(s) will produce a database of full genome sequences of the animal-originating SARS-CoV-2 isolates including important metadata (animal species, locality, date, virus clade, virus lineage etc.) and data describing human-originating SARS-CoV-2 isolates circulating in the same date at the same locality. Further he/she can prepare and test R scripts testing overrepresentation of detected SARS-CoV-2 strains in animal hosts.
References:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-39782-x;
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-020-2342-5;
https://www.science.org/content/article/captive-gorillas-test-positive-coronavirus
Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague, Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Centre for Infectious Animal Diseases
Building a Prediction Model of Dengue Outbreaks in Sao Paulo, Brazil
Topic Overview:
Mosquito-borne diseases are among the most dangerous threats for all people living in tropical areas. Seasons associated with a particular type of weather (usually wet and hot) are also typical for the highest incidence of mosquito-borne diseases. This association is logical as mosquitos’ activity and development highly depend on meteorological conditions. We expect that these associations can be found also on small scale (weather in past few days or weeks) allowing us to predict actual risk of mosquito-borne diseases based on actual weather and not only the general risks associated with the season. Brazil (at least some of the federal states) has a very good system for monitoring of mosquito-borne diseases incidence, therefore it seems to be an ideal country for collection of data allowing such type of research.
Since last year, we have collected data on the incidence of Dengue and Zika on a municipality level in Sao Paulo, Brazil, covering the period 2016-2022. In addition, we have extracted data on temperature, humidity, wind and precipitation from the ERA5 reanalysis.
Tasks:
The intern(s) will i) analyze spatio-temporal links between weather variables and Dengue incidence in Sao Paolo and/or ii) help with the collection of socioeconomic data from the study area.
Requirements:
Required skills:
1) data processing in MS Excel and/or R Studio or similar.
2) basic experience with statistical analysis and/or programming (R, Python, Matlab etc.)
Outcomes:
The intern(s) will analyze the links between weather variability and Dengue/Zika dynamisc in Sao Paulo, Brazil Further he/she/they can help with further data collection.
References:
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(22)00073-0/fulltext; https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(21)01787-6/fulltext#seccestitle70 (part 1.3); https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-56650-1; http://www.saude.sp.gov.br/cve-centro-de-vigilancia-epidemiologica-prof.-alexandre-vranjac/areas-de-vigilancia/doencas-de-transmissao-por-vetores-e-zoonoses/agravos/febre-amarela/boletim-epidemiologico
Mosquito-borne diseases are among the most dangerous threats for all people living in tropical areas. Seasons associated with a particular type of weather (usually wet and hot) are also typical for the highest incidence of mosquito-borne diseases. This association is logical as mosquitos’ activity and development highly depend on meteorological conditions. We expect that these associations can be found also on small scale (weather in past few days or weeks) allowing us to predict actual risk of mosquito-borne diseases based on actual weather and not only the general risks associated with the season. Brazil (at least some of the federal states) has a very good system for monitoring of mosquito-borne diseases incidence, therefore it seems to be an ideal country for collection of data allowing such type of research.
Since last year, we have collected data on the incidence of Dengue and Zika on a municipality level in Sao Paulo, Brazil, covering the period 2016-2022. In addition, we have extracted data on temperature, humidity, wind and precipitation from the ERA5 reanalysis.
Tasks:
The intern(s) will i) analyze spatio-temporal links between weather variables and Dengue incidence in Sao Paolo and/or ii) help with the collection of socioeconomic data from the study area.
Requirements:
Required skills:
1) data processing in MS Excel and/or R Studio or similar.
2) basic experience with statistical analysis and/or programming (R, Python, Matlab etc.)
Outcomes:
The intern(s) will analyze the links between weather variability and Dengue/Zika dynamisc in Sao Paulo, Brazil Further he/she/they can help with further data collection.
References:
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(22)00073-0/fulltext; https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(21)01787-6/fulltext#seccestitle70 (part 1.3); https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-56650-1; http://www.saude.sp.gov.br/cve-centro-de-vigilancia-epidemiologica-prof.-alexandre-vranjac/areas-de-vigilancia/doencas-de-transmissao-por-vetores-e-zoonoses/agravos/febre-amarela/boletim-epidemiologico
Mendel University in Brno, Faculty of AgriSciences, Department of Applied and Landscape Ecology
Environmental Security
Topic Overview:
Environmental security is currently perceived as one of the important areas of science and research. Although it is a term that has been used in the literature since the early 1970s, there is still no consensus on how to define this term precisely. One of the possible concepts that the international group of experts has evaluated as the most concise so far is that environmental security means ensuring the relative safety (through maximum risk elimination) of the population from the devastating consequences of natural or anthropogenic processes. Both domestic and cross-border risks need to be taken into account. The aim of this internship is to help with literature review for the purpose of innovation of lectures and publication outputs.
Tasks:
To review and summarize the existing publications on Environmental Security. Global task is to prepare a draft of Article - review summarizing different approaches to environmental security.
Requirements:
The intern would work mainly on literature review. Suitable for students of Environmentalal Studies. The ability to work with scientific paper databases (WoS, Scopus,...) is required.
Outcomes:
Lit. review. (no of pages will be specified).
Environmental security is currently perceived as one of the important areas of science and research. Although it is a term that has been used in the literature since the early 1970s, there is still no consensus on how to define this term precisely. One of the possible concepts that the international group of experts has evaluated as the most concise so far is that environmental security means ensuring the relative safety (through maximum risk elimination) of the population from the devastating consequences of natural or anthropogenic processes. Both domestic and cross-border risks need to be taken into account. The aim of this internship is to help with literature review for the purpose of innovation of lectures and publication outputs.
Tasks:
To review and summarize the existing publications on Environmental Security. Global task is to prepare a draft of Article - review summarizing different approaches to environmental security.
Requirements:
The intern would work mainly on literature review. Suitable for students of Environmentalal Studies. The ability to work with scientific paper databases (WoS, Scopus,...) is required.
Outcomes:
Lit. review. (no of pages will be specified).
Mendel University in Brno, Faculty of AgriSciences, Department of Applied and Landscape Ecology
Modern Technologies for Teaching Environmental and Agroecological Studies
Topic Overview:
Teaching and learning methods are constantly improving, relying more and more on modern technology. Schools and universities of 21st century are now able to implement various types of educational technology, such as Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), robotics, 3D printers, mobile devices, smart classrooms etc. The aim of thies internship is to help to find suitable technologies for teaching Environmentalistics and Agroecology at the university level and summerize them in a review.
Tasks:
To review and summarize the existing publications on Modern technologies for teaching Environmental Sciences and Agroecology.
Requirements:
The intern would work mainly on literature review. Suitable for students of Environmentalistics, Agroecology, Landcape Ecology etc. The ability to work with quality online sources and scientific paper databases (WoS, Scopus,...) is necessary.
Outcomes:
Lit. review. (no of pages will be specified).
Teaching and learning methods are constantly improving, relying more and more on modern technology. Schools and universities of 21st century are now able to implement various types of educational technology, such as Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), robotics, 3D printers, mobile devices, smart classrooms etc. The aim of thies internship is to help to find suitable technologies for teaching Environmentalistics and Agroecology at the university level and summerize them in a review.
Tasks:
To review and summarize the existing publications on Modern technologies for teaching Environmental Sciences and Agroecology.
Requirements:
The intern would work mainly on literature review. Suitable for students of Environmentalistics, Agroecology, Landcape Ecology etc. The ability to work with quality online sources and scientific paper databases (WoS, Scopus,...) is necessary.
Outcomes:
Lit. review. (no of pages will be specified).
Mendel University in Brno, Faculty of AgriSciences, Department of Applied and Landscape Ecology
Climate-Smart Agriculture
Topic Overview:
Climate-smart technology supports food security and a sustainable environment. It is an answer to the effects of climate change which make agricultural development more challenging than ever before. Climate-smart production depends on technology transformation and a modern skilled workforce. Currently, it is very important to support innovation in agriculture by developing modern digital learning materials in the context of the EU Green Deal. There is a need to ensure that current and future professionals in the sector have the required key skills and competences, including through the development of innovative and blended learning programmes. The aim of this internship is to help with quality literature review for the purpose of innovation of lectures and publication outputs.
Tasks:
To review and summarize the existing publications on Climate-Smart agriculture . Global task is to prepare a review summarizing different approaches to ”climate-smart agriculture”.
Requirements:
The intern would work mainly on literature review. Suitable for students of Environmentalistics, Agroecology. Climatology, Agriculture etc. High ability to work with scientific paper databases (WoS, Scopus,...) is required.
Outcomes:
Lit. review. (no of pages will be specified).
Climate-smart technology supports food security and a sustainable environment. It is an answer to the effects of climate change which make agricultural development more challenging than ever before. Climate-smart production depends on technology transformation and a modern skilled workforce. Currently, it is very important to support innovation in agriculture by developing modern digital learning materials in the context of the EU Green Deal. There is a need to ensure that current and future professionals in the sector have the required key skills and competences, including through the development of innovative and blended learning programmes. The aim of this internship is to help with quality literature review for the purpose of innovation of lectures and publication outputs.
Tasks:
To review and summarize the existing publications on Climate-Smart agriculture . Global task is to prepare a review summarizing different approaches to ”climate-smart agriculture”.
Requirements:
The intern would work mainly on literature review. Suitable for students of Environmentalistics, Agroecology. Climatology, Agriculture etc. High ability to work with scientific paper databases (WoS, Scopus,...) is required.
Outcomes:
Lit. review. (no of pages will be specified).
Palacký University Olomouc, Faculty of Science, Department of Development and Environmental Studies
Measuring Sustainable Development
Topic Overview:
The topic responds to Sustainable Development Goals’ target “to develop measurements of progress on sustainable development that complement gross domestic product”. These efforts are also called “Beyond GDP” and cover conceptualizing and measuring various aspects of sustainable development. Some subtopics (including links to selected literature) are listed below.
Task:
The intern would serve as a research assistant. Depending on the topic I will be working on and the research phase, the tasks may include, for example, literature review and data analysis.
Requirements:
Suitable for economics students with interdisciplinary perspectives from environmental and development studies. Diligence and analytical thinking are necessary. Knowledge of statistical methods is an advantage.
Outcomes:
Will be determined at the beginning of the internship (likely a literature review).
References:
“Beyond GDP” measurement and institutionalization (Stiglitz et al., 2009; Blanchflower and Bryson, 2023; van den Bergh, 2022);
Composite metrics of sustainability and sustainable development (Syrovátka, 2020; Hickel, 2020);
Safe and just space (Fanning et al., 2022; Alleisa and Bakshi, 2023);
Sustainable Development Goals (Hametner, 2022; van Vuuren et al., 2022);
Climate change and equity (Dooley et al., 2021; Chancel, 2022; Fanning and Hickel, 2023)
The topic responds to Sustainable Development Goals’ target “to develop measurements of progress on sustainable development that complement gross domestic product”. These efforts are also called “Beyond GDP” and cover conceptualizing and measuring various aspects of sustainable development. Some subtopics (including links to selected literature) are listed below.
Task:
The intern would serve as a research assistant. Depending on the topic I will be working on and the research phase, the tasks may include, for example, literature review and data analysis.
Requirements:
Suitable for economics students with interdisciplinary perspectives from environmental and development studies. Diligence and analytical thinking are necessary. Knowledge of statistical methods is an advantage.
Outcomes:
Will be determined at the beginning of the internship (likely a literature review).
References:
“Beyond GDP” measurement and institutionalization (Stiglitz et al., 2009; Blanchflower and Bryson, 2023; van den Bergh, 2022);
Composite metrics of sustainability and sustainable development (Syrovátka, 2020; Hickel, 2020);
Safe and just space (Fanning et al., 2022; Alleisa and Bakshi, 2023);
Sustainable Development Goals (Hametner, 2022; van Vuuren et al., 2022);
Climate change and equity (Dooley et al., 2021; Chancel, 2022; Fanning and Hickel, 2023)
University of South Bohemia, Faculty of Economics, Department of Regional Management and Law
Rain Forests in Brazil and Their Sustainability: Social, Cultural, Economic and Environmental Issues
Topic Overview:
This is a global topic and we in Europe have relatively big data about the rates of forest loss, loss of forest area, etc.
What is missing are data concerning social, cultural, economic and local, regional environmental issues. We will use these data for the lectures on the subject of Environmental Economy, and research publications at conferences (student will be listed as co-author).
The outline of the research concerns relationships among sustainability, land grabbing a bioeconomy as a potential solution as well as threatens.
Tasks:
See annotation.
Requirements:
Basic knowledge of sociology and economy.
Outcomes:
See annotation.
References:
Look on the similar topic in journals Sociologia Ruralis and Sustainability.
This is a global topic and we in Europe have relatively big data about the rates of forest loss, loss of forest area, etc.
What is missing are data concerning social, cultural, economic and local, regional environmental issues. We will use these data for the lectures on the subject of Environmental Economy, and research publications at conferences (student will be listed as co-author).
The outline of the research concerns relationships among sustainability, land grabbing a bioeconomy as a potential solution as well as threatens.
Tasks:
See annotation.
Requirements:
Basic knowledge of sociology and economy.
Outcomes:
See annotation.
References:
Look on the similar topic in journals Sociologia Ruralis and Sustainability.
Czech Technical University in Prague, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Department of Urbanism and Land Planning
Industrial Heritage and Its Manifestation in a Historic Cultural Landscape
Topic Overview:
This project aims to define the amount of interference of the preserved industrial heritage on its surroundings, describe a landscape expression and its values, which can help to protect other similar industrial relics from their removal.
Tasks:
Analysis of Brazilian historic cultural landscape (in 2D and the scenic photos), finding characteristic signs for different types of historical land-use, finding unique characters of industrial heritage in a historic cultural landscape.
Requirements:
Autocad, Photoshop, InDesign or GIS would be great, but not necessary.
Outcomes:
Maps, photos, presentation-poster, scenic analysis of the landscape.
References:
Industrial Archaeology : Principles and Practice by Marilyn Palmer.
This project aims to define the amount of interference of the preserved industrial heritage on its surroundings, describe a landscape expression and its values, which can help to protect other similar industrial relics from their removal.
Tasks:
Analysis of Brazilian historic cultural landscape (in 2D and the scenic photos), finding characteristic signs for different types of historical land-use, finding unique characters of industrial heritage in a historic cultural landscape.
Requirements:
Autocad, Photoshop, InDesign or GIS would be great, but not necessary.
Outcomes:
Maps, photos, presentation-poster, scenic analysis of the landscape.
References:
Industrial Archaeology : Principles and Practice by Marilyn Palmer.
