Colleagues from Catholic University of Valencia (UCV) visited South East Technological University (SETU) campus in Waterford to collaborate on a research project to develop a marine drone which aims to monitor marine species.
The focus of this exciting collaboration is to carry out applied research with an Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) to complete an autonomous mission, whereby the USV navigates to pre-programmed GPS locations along the coast in Valencia and then automatically deploys it sensor array, before returning safely to base.
In the framework of the Research For Society project of EU-CONEXUS, professors Jose Tena and Rafael García – leading experts in endangered marine species in the Mediterranean area – have collaborated with Jason Berry and the student research project group in SETU’s Engineering Technology, Applied Robotics Lab.
Speaking about the project, Jason said that "this collaboration between our SETU engineering and science students and leading experts Jose Tena and Rafael García, showcases the amazing potential of Research Informed Learning".
A team of student researchers from SETU will travel to IMEDMAR-UCV this summer to complete sea trials with the drone boat.
Marta Taléns, Institutional Coordinator for EU-CONEXUS-RFS at UCV, visited Prof Peter McLoughlin and Dr Mike Kinsella to discuss how SETU are implementing the EU-CONEXUS+ project at an institutional level. Marta also visited the Research Support Unit to meet with Jo Holohan and others in this office and also to shadow the team to learn more about the best practices at SETU.
Marta had the opportunity to meet in person the SETU representative for the Human Resources work package for research in the EU-CONEXUS RFS project. Eimear Fitzpatrick, Human Resources Business Partner, explained in detail which initiatives are carried out at SETU to develop researchers’ career as well as attract and retain talents.
Completing a busy visit, the UCV team met with the PMBRC team before Dr Niall O’Reilly gave a tour of the laboratories and facilities at the PMBRC. They also met with Dr Joe O’Mahony and got an insight into the STREAM project activities .