Goals
There is a need for the development of new techniques to aide in the conservation of wildlife to prevent extinction and the decrease of biodiversity. Examples of such techniques include the use of drones to mitigate rhino poaching or low-cost equipment that can deter elephants or predators from entering rural communities. The goal of this VIP is to expose Georgia Tech students to the field of conservation, and to bring different disciplines together to aide various species. All projects are proposed and supported by real experts in the field, who can provide the background knowledge and advice as required. After this course is completed, a short curriculum will ensure that students learn how to perform background research, conduct ethical experiments with animals, and be able to document their results. In addition to the short curriculum that the class offers, students will grow by communicating with international leaders in wildlife and species conservation, Furthermore, continued participation in this VIP will allow students to take projects from an idea to a tested and implemented solution.
For more information please view the Course Syllabus.
Issues Involved or Addressed
Utilization of different science and engineering techniques as it applies to the conservation of animals. Conservation is defined as protecting wild species and their habitats in order to prevent species from going extinct. These projects are working on developing new techniques to aide in wildlife and animal conservation. To see the flowchart of how our projects go from start to completion see our project infographic.
Project List and Sponsors for each project can be found on the Project Slides.
Methods and Technologies
Academic Majors of Interest
Preferred Interests and Preparation
If you are interested in animal welfare and conservation and how to apply the skills you learn in the classroom to real wildlife problems, this is your opportunity. Through this VIP course, you can help aide in the conservation of a species and prevent species extinction while increasing the biodiversity of the planet. Some projects in this will require communicating with international collaborators which speak various languages. All majors are welcome and if you have questions about this VIP please email the Instructor akschulz@gatech.edu and the Graduate Assistant at bseleb3@gatech.edu.
If you are a student who is interested in learning how you can apply the skills you learn in the classroom to real problems, this is your opportunity to do so. Through a VIP course, you can help define the business, design, engineering, usability, and policy aspects of a broad range of global humanitarian efforts here at Georgia Tech. All majors and skill sets are welcome and encouraged to apply!
Meeting Schedule & Location
Team Advisors
- Mechanical Engineering
- Georgia Tech Research Institute
- Graduate Assistant