Franklin’s ground squirrel research
Project scope
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Data analysisSkills
data analysisFranklin’s ground squirrel is a mammal species in Alberta that is likely in decline. The student will complete data analysis on audio recordings from Autonomous Recorder Units in central Alberta to determine if this species can be detected in new regions in the province. The student will also assist with preparations for the upcoming 2024 field season focusing on detecting this species throughout the province.
The student will complete the following tasks:
· Selecting audio data to analyse from sites collected throughout Alberta.
· Developing a virtual recognizer in Kaleidoscope software to detect Franklin’s ground squirrels in audio recordings.
· Analyzing audio recordings to identify Franklin’s ground squirrel calls using the software Kaleidoscope.
· Contacting biologists and other professionals to organize outreach activities in summer 2024.
I will provide the student with access to the data required to complete the project as well as the analysis software Kaleidoscope which they can use to analyse the data. I will hold regular check-ins with the students to ensure that they are having success analyzing the data or if they need extra support. I will help them create emails for contacting professionals while they organize field logistics for the 2024 field season and will provide support as they contact these professionals to ensure that they do not run into difficulties.
About the company
The Biological Sciences major includes two streams of study—molecular/cellular biology and ecology/environmental biology. Our dedicated faculty members, program of study and facilities provide opportunities for students to study life from its smallest to its grandest forms, both inside and outside the classroom. Newly constructed facilities include a microscopy suite, a tissue culture facility, a histology centre and a small aquatics room with freshwater and marine tanks. During spring and summer terms, the five undergraduate teaching laboratories are used by faculty and students for research activities. Experiential learning opportunities include a 300-level Tropical Rainforest Ecology course, which includes an 18-day field trip to Ecuador where students can experience a variety of ecosystems including the Amazonian lowland rainforest, the Andean cloud forest and the Galapagos Islands.
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