ACMD Seminar: Using Topological Data Analysis to Reveal the Structure of Ecological Systems

Melinda Kleczynski
Dept. of Mathematical Sciences, University of Delaware

Tuesday, October 4, 2022, 3:00-4:00 EDT (1:00-2:00 MDT)

A video of this talk is available to NIST staff in the Math channel on NISTube, which is accessible from the NIST internal home page.

Abstract: Using topological techniques to analyze ecological datasets improves our understanding of complex ecological systems and prompts the development of new mathematical tools. Topological data analysis provides insights across a range of domains and data formats by using local information to discover the organization of a system across scales. We use topological data analysis for tracking a topological feature over time in a simulated biological aggregation, understanding a real community of pollinators and plants affected by a wildfire event, and detecting certain groups of birds on weather surveillance radar. This presentation contains ongoing joint work with Dr. Chad Giusti and Dr. Jeffrey Buler.

Bio: Melinda Kleczynski is a PhD candidate at the University of Delaware, expecting to graduate in 2023. Her research in topological data analysis and mathematical biology is supported by a University Dissertation Fellowship and the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR). Before graduate school, she worked as a veterinary technician, focusing on emergency care and internal medicine.

Host: Ryan Evans / Tony Kearsley

Note: This talk will be recorded to provide access to NIST staff and associates who could not be present to the time of the seminar. The recording will be made available in the Math channel on NISTube, which is accessible only on the NIST internal network. This recording could be released to the public through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. Do not discuss or visually present any sensitive (CUI/PII/BII) material. Ensure that no inappropriate material or any minors are contained within the background of any recording. (To facilitate this, we request that cameras of attendees are muted except when asking questions.)

Note: Visitors from outside NIST must contact Lochi Orr (301) 975-3800; at least 24 hours in advance.