Lead researcher: Matthew Bennett
School/Faculty: Faculty of Science and Technology
Cluster, centre, institute: Centre for Conservation Ecology and Environmental Change
URA position title: Human Footprints
Relevant disciplines:
Applied Geography
Archaeology
Anthropology
Forensic Science
Environmental Science
Applied Biology
Description of the position: To support research across a wide range of activities with respect to the
analysis of human footprints. Firstly, the post-holder will assist in the collection (photogrammetry
and optical laser scanning) of footwear data – footprints – at a range of sites close to Talbot Campus
for use in software development. Secondly, the processing of this data and existing data collected
during Foot Lab 2014 (Festival of Learning, 2014) using bespoke software developed for the analysis
of digital footprints. Thirdly, preparing data files for statistical analysis by others, keeping detailed
records of processing and report this in professional formats. The post-holder will gain experience in
three-dimensional data collection and analysis. All necessary training will be provided and the postholder will have an opportunity to contribute to forthcoming research publications.
Explain how this position will enhance and enrich the student's undergraduate experience and
how it relates to the relevant courses/disciplines and/or future career of the student: The post is
relevant to a wide range of geographical, archaeological, anthropological and forensic disciplines
providing field experience and training in three-dimensional data capture and analysis. The postholder will work on some of the most high profile research being undertaken at BU currently and will
have opportunity to contribute to this research and associated publications. The post-holder will
work with Matthew Bennett one of BU’s leading researchers. The potential to develop
undergraduate research projects on the back of this post or to frame future Masters or Doctoral
projects is clear.
How will the position be supervised and mentored: The post-holder will report to Matthew Bennett
on a bi-weekly basis. They will receive continual mentoring and guidance throughout the project
and have priority access during the duration of the role. Bennett is an experienced student mentor
and research supervisor.
List of duties and responsibilities of the position: Duties include: (1) data collection at sites adjacent
to the Talbot Campus using both photogrammetry and optical laser scanning of footprints; (2) data
processing of digital elevation models of human footprints including file preparation and analysis
using bespoke software developed by the research team; (3) extracting inter-landmark distances and
coordinates from digital files and preparing files for visualisation and analysis; and (4) basic reporting
and notation around data collection and processing.
List the position qualifications including any special requirements: There are no prior qualifications
required for this post. Training will be provided in all aspects of the required duties.