Scientists at the University of Bath have set up a specialist research lab in Madagascar to train local students in using the latest satellite technology to monitor and conserve the environment.
Dr Peter Long and Professor Tamás Székely, from the University’s Department of Biology & Biochemistry, have transformed a previously empty room at the University of Toliara into a Geographical Information Science (GIS) lab.
Supported by The Leverhulme Trust and the Royal Geographical Society (with the Institute of British Geographers) Ralph Brown Expedition Award, they have created the specialist lab by providing laptops, internet access and GPS receivers.
The pair also collaborated with Dr Sama Zefania at the University of Toliara to run courses to train Madagascan biology graduates to analyse satellite images for projects ranging from environmental conservation to planning and forestry management.
To read more visit: www.bath.ac.uk/news/2009
Tags: Research, science, technology, web, workshop
