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Soph Wilday

Miss

20242024

Research activity per year

Personal profile

Research

I’m part of the Fisheries Team at Bangor University, where I’m developing machine learning models to automatically detect, measure, and sex European lobsters and brown crabs from underwater camera footage. My work sits at the intersection of software engineering, artificial intelligence, and marine science — using technology to make fisheries monitoring more efficient, accurate, and accessible.

A big part of my role involves designing and building these intelligent systems from the ground up, from writing and training code to testing models in real-world marine environments. I also take part in at-sea data collection and shore-based surveys, working closely with our wider research team to gather and validate the information that powers our models. This combination of hands-on fieldwork and technical development is one of my favourite parts of the job.

My position is funded by the Welsh Government, and I’m always eager to explore new ways technology can support sustainable fisheries management. Whether it’s collaborating on innovative conservation tools or integrating new AI techniques into marine research, I love connecting with others who share an interest in applying tech for good!

Contact Info

Overview

Before joining Bangor University, I worked as a scientific diver & instructor in Indonesia, where I developed a deep appreciation for marine life and the need to protect it. That experience inspired me to pursue marine science academically, and in 2020 I began my MSci in Marine Biology and Oceanography at Bangor, graduating in 2024.

During my degree, I combined my love for the ocean with a growing interest in technology and data. My master’s research focused on SharkTrack — a machine learning model designed to identify and track sharks in underwater BRUV (baited remote underwater video) footage. Working on that project opened my eyes to the incredible potential of AI in marine conservation, and ultimately led me toward my current research in fisheries technology.

Outside of research, I’m happiest underwater or on the coast, and I love finding ways to blend my practical diving experience with innovative approaches to studying and protecting marine ecosystems.

Education/Academic qualification

MSc, Marine Biology & Oceanography, Bangor University

1 Sept 202010 Jul 2024

Award Date: 10 Jul 2024

Undergraduate, BSc, Marine Biology & Oceanography, Bangor University

Award Date: 13 Jul 2023

Expertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals

In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):

  1. SDG 14 - Life Below Water
    SDG 14 Life Below Water

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