Digital Environment: A Networking Event Sponsored by the Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences (FELS) and Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences (FEPS)

Co-Organisers: Prof Steve Darby (ADR, FELS), Prof Robert Wood (ADR, FEPS)

Venue: Building 176 Room 1125, Boldrewood Innovation Campus

Recent technological developments have led to a step-change in our ability to undertake integrated monitoring, analysis, modelling and visualisation of the natural environment across a wide range of temporal and spatial scales. Examples include the deployment of integrated networks of sensors (including those deployed on autonomous systems), the use of machine learning, innovative data analytical tools to interpret palaeo-environmental data, High Performance Computing to aid simulation of virtual environments, wireless communications, Earth Observation data and the assimilation of large data sets generated by citizen scientists. These developments towards a ‘Digital Environment’ can substantially improve our understanding and modelling of environmental change and therefore our ability to manage earth’s resources more sustainably. Indeed, the importance of the Digital Environment is highlighted by it being one of 8 priority areas in NERC’s Delivery Plan. A number of recent funding calls have been focused in this area, and it is very likely that it will continue to attract considerable funding in the future.

This networking event, to be held on the morning of the 21st June at the Boldrewood Innovation Campus seeks to provide an opportunity to harness Southampton’s large community of researchers who are interested in the environmental, observational and computer/data sciences (we deliberately wish to define these areas and interests as broadly as possible). The programme will comprise a series of rapid-fire presentations that afford an opportunity to understand the breadth of Southampton’s expertise, complemented by interactive discussion sessions (indicative themes are highlighted in the outline programme, but we do not wish to stifle creativity and welcome discussions in any area) that aim to stimulate new collaborations. The goal is to stimulate the formation of new networks that lead to new research activities, including funding bids.

Outline Programme

0900: Registration and Coffee/Refreshments Available

0915: Welcome and Introduction (SD/RW). Overview of main goals and structure of day.

0930 – 1100: Pop-up talks showcasing research activities and aspirations in the Digital Environment

1100 – 1130: Break and Refreshments (reconfigure room)

1130 -1300: Break out sessions:

• AI and Machine Learning in the Environmental Sciences

• Big Data for Citizen Science, including Data Recovery exercises

• Innovative environmental sensor networks

• Earth Observation

• Palaeo-environmental interpretation

• Trustworthy systems

1300--1330: Feedback: Rapporteurs summarise discussions and identify potential collaborations arising

1330: Close