"Shark Cam: Using Underwater Robotic Vehicles To Study Shark Behavior" Amy Kukulya

Amy Kukulya, Research Engineer, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Dive deep with WHOI Researcher Amy Kukulya into a fascinating presentation about the use of underwater robotic vehicles to study shark behavior. A Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution SharkCam Research Engineer, Kukulya equips underwater robots with cameras and sensors so they can track sharks tagged with transponders.

Amy Kukulya is a recognized authority in development and operations of autonomous underwater systems (AUVs) at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, specializing in scientific applications of AUVs. She is currently a Research Engineer in the Applied Ocean Physics and Engineering Department and Project Manager and lead technical developer for under-ice oil detection and mapping projects. Working with underwater robots has brought her from the Arctic to Antarctica. Her technical skills include configuration and operation of AUV systems, including navigation, imaging capabilities, data processing techniques and troubleshooting electrical systems. She has either led or participated in over 95 oceanographic expeditions to date. Apart from her technical skills, she is passionate about promoting education/outreach initiatives, and has been named a Wowster by the MA Governor's office. She is the lead developer of SharkCam as featured on Shark Week. Her work has also been featured on several Discovery Channel and PBS productions as well as the Boston Globe, Washington Post and National Geographic Magazine. Amy has also testified before the Senate and recently threw out the first pitch at a Boston Red Sox game.