The RoboPI group at the University of Florida’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, led by Md Jahidul Islam, PhD, recently joined forces with the Ocean Rescue Alliance International (ORAI) and the International SeaKeepers Society to advance marine robotics for ecosystem monitoring. The collaboration focused on testing fully autonomous survey and mapping technologies designed to better understand the growth and health of remote marine habitats.
Drawing on ORAI’s extensive experience in marine conservation and restoration, and SeaKeepers’ global network of vessels supporting oceanographic research, the teams successfully deployed and tested innovative underwater systems. “We use artificial structures to enhance marine environments, build habitats, conduct restoration, protect coastlines, and connect communities,” said Dr. Shelby Thomas, CEO and founder of ORAI. “Partnering with UF allows us to explore cutting-edge ways to monitor and document our artificial reefs.”
Read more about Tech Meets Tide: UF RoboPI Lab Joins Forces for Marine Ecosystem Monitoring.
