Other Projects
Here is a list of academic and work projects I recently did that are most fun and relevant to my research interests. Feel free to use the slide deck galleries and links to learn more about these projects!
Conservation Recommendations for the Pacific Northwest
In ENV 744 Conservation Science and Landscape Planning at the Yale School of Environment, my peers and I completed a scientific report to provide large-scale spatial planning strategies in the Pacific Northwest using conservation prioritization and land-use optimization models. We selected ten keystone species in the study area and built their species distribution models (SDM) in the open-source software MaxEnt. To identify the priority areas for future conservation, we first performed a baseline geospatial analysis of biodiversity, carbon density, and competing land use, then highlighted regions likely to experience conflicts between conservation and intense human modifications. At the end of the report, we also provided a list of actionable strategies for conservation practitioners and policymakers.
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Turkey Vulture Movement Modelling
In ENV 738 Wildlife Movement Ecology at the Yale School of Environment, my peers and I used a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach to analyze the data collected from a decade-long study on Movebank Data Repository. Our study shows that the presence of competitors, increased forest cover, and densely constructed wind farms in the migration pathway can negatively influence the movement speed of turkey vultures (Cathartes aura). We also highlight the need to take a holistic approach to consider both direct and indirect effects of interspecific competition, landscape, and anthropogenic factors for future conservation efforts of migratory wildlife species.
Wildlife-friendly Practices and Ecolables in China
My team and I collaborated with Wildlife Friendly Enterprise Network (WFEN) to work on a graduate capstone project in spring 2022. We created a report to evaluate the potential of global brands headquartered in China using ecolabel schemes to mitigate their growing pressure on biodiversity along the supply chain. To help WFEN find the opportunities and challenges to expand its work in China, we analyzed the market demand for wildlife-friendly practices and provided a proposal for a collaborative snow leopard ecotourism program which is currently operated by local conservation organizations.
Open Database for African Circular Economy
In a circular economy, products and materials are reused, repaired, and recycled rather than thrown away after use. This creates a loop system where waste is reduced, and resources can be used more efficiently. In the Summer of 2021, I joined an interdisciplinary team at Footprints Africa to build an open database of the circular economy. The databases provided a platform to support small business owners in Africa to stay connected with each other and reach out to international collaborators. I also applied the knowledge that I gained from this internship experience to conduct a case study on evaluating sustainable solutions for E-waste management in Accra, Ghana.
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Check out the project page, interactive map, and database on the Knowledge Hub here
Data Visulization for Science Communication
To communicate effectively with data for scientific research and communication, I developed my data visualization and communication skills through classes that use R, Python, Tableau, ArcGIS, StoryMap, and other tools to create visualizations on publicly available datasets. I designed a StoryMap to visualize two datasets that were published by New York Department of Park and Recreation (NYDPR) from 2018 to 2019 based on their wildlife response work log and public participation record. My goal is to provide straightforward and informative charts and maps to help the public better understand what species are sharing the spaces with us in New York City and provide some basic knowledge on how to engage in urban wildlife conservation.
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Developing 3D Models with UAV Photogrammetry
Over the past decade, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV or commonly known as drone) photogrammetry for 3D modeling has been increasingly used in various disciplines, including archeology, city planning, and conservation. Compared to traditional terrestrial surveying techniques, UAV photogrammetry is favored for its flexibility in data acquisition and its low instrument cost while obtaining accurate and nearly realistic documentation of details at high resolution. In ENV 704 Workshop on Remote Sensing and Photogrammetry with Drones at Yale School of the Environment, my peer and I constructed 3D models of the Beinecke Library using data collected from a flight mission, and 3D printed the best model we got. We also did a detailed comparison study to understand how different software, photo combinations, and reconstruction methods impact the results of 3D modeling.
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