Geoinformatics
Geoinformatics involves the use and management of geospatial information, from data acquisition to analysis, modelling, visualisation and dissemination. Data acquisition can be by direct survey or through remote sensing, whilst data analysis and modelling typically makes use of computer technology and software, such as Geographical Information Systems. Geoinformatics is used to model and understand the spatial distribution of environmental phenomena and their underlying causal processes. In particular, remote sensing allows us a synoptic view of the landscape so that we can scale up patterns and processes identified in the field and see the ‘bigger picture’.
Our geoinformatics research focuses on environmental applications of remote sensing, working with satellite and airborne remotely sensed data (multi-spectral, hyper-spectral, LiDAR and RADAR), investigating their integration and their incorporation with diverse field data sets. Research topics include 3D landscape and urban modelling, coastal geomorphology, glaciers & glacial geology, forest structure and composition, the assessment of habitat quality and transformation, conservation success, and the development of biodiversity indicators.
For further information regarding our geoinformatics research, please contact Dr Ross Hill.
Research projects:- 3D Urban Modelling and Monitoring
- Developing both macro and micro-scale measurements of coastal change
- Applying geospatial approaches to assessing conservation success
- Developing rapid and cost-effective approaches for detecting habitat transformation
- Landscape analysis: pattern, structure & transition
- Mapping disturbance, regeneration and diversity in tropical rain forests
- Modelling forest structure and species composition from integrated LiDAR and hyper-spectral data
- Identifying the determinants of habitat quality for woodland birds and their stability over time
- Developing biodiversity indicators and driving ecosystem models with remotely sensed data
