Computational Crochet Corals

How cool is it that we can model nature with math?!

During my internship with the ecological design non-profit TerreformONE, where I was supervised by Dr. Mitchell Joachim, I was introduced to this concept of computational design and fell in love. I couldn’t believe you could use math to model 3D objects. Because I was fond of 3D printers and fabrication in general I became addicted. I have been on a path of understanding the ways in which we can use computational design to solve ecological conservation issues as climate changes becomes an evermore pressing issue.

This summer I got the opportunity to conduct some weird interdisciplinary research on algorithms. Specifically, I was interested in differential growth algorithms and how it could intersect with environmental conservation.

I wrote updates throughout the summer which can be found on the buttons to the right.

Community Science and Public Outreach Intern at Billion Oyster Project (BOP)

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At the end of the semester I had the opportunity to present my research to all of BOP’s staff. The link to the slide deck is below.

During my internship at BOP I got to help out with a variety of projects and learned so much about environmental non-profit work. During my internship I began to look at my research from a more practical perspective. I began to see my project as a way for people to become interested in computing and conservation. During my internship I:

  • helped record data on oyster monitoring stations and got to witness the surprising amount of biodiversity in the harbor.

  • recorded data on wild oysters at Powell’s Cove.

  • helped table public events to teach the public about biodiversity and oyster restoration.

  • gave tours to the public about efforts of BOP on Governor’s Island

  • completed more of my research project and applied it to NYC’s specific needs for restoration and conservation.

Image Description: Bella at Powell’s Cove holding calipers and a wild oyster

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Accessible Modular Synthesizer