Deep Mixture and Generative Models: Representation, Approximation, Robustness, and Application

Recent progress on deep architectures has enabled efficient representation and learning of complex high dimensional probability distributions over rich sensory data. In particular, deep mixture models and deep generative models have emerged as the most powerful techniques for this task. The proposed research aims at addressing some of the fundamental questions in this field: What […]

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Evaluating the Risk of Climate Change and Hydraulic Processes to Linear Infrastructure

Networks of linear Infrastructure, such as our roads and pipelines, allow us to move people, natural resources, and manufactured goods. Common practice has been to utilise historic climatic data to establish deterministic design guidelines for water course crossings. With climate change uncertainly, asset managers are in a position where they are questioning the guidelines and […]

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North Coast Innovation Lab

The North Coast Innovation Lab (NCIL) is a place-based initiative for people who are invested in the future of Prince Rupert to work together on tangible projects and initiatives that build a resilient economy as a tool for community well-being. Forthcoming student Project Coordinators provide capacity to the efforts of the NCIL through action-research, project […]

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Improving flexible, printable electrochromic devices with silver nanowires

An electrochromic device alters its optical properties such as tint or colour through a voltage. They are currently used in car rear-view mirrors, smart windows, electrochromic displays and eyewear. Conventional electrochromic devices are built on glass, but future applications such as foldable displays demand mechanically flexible devices. Furthermore, to reduce manufacturing costs, materials that are […]

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Optimal actuator location for semilinear systems

Consider the temperature distribution in a classroom; to change it, we need to install a heater somewhere in the classroom. With a heater, we can raise the temperature, as well as change its distribution such that less heat flows to doors and windows, and more to seats. The location of the heater in the room […]

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Overcoming Barriers to Sustainable Purchasing: A Case Study of Avocado Co-op

In order to meet global climate change goals, it is necessary for consumers to shift their preferences for products towards more sustainable and eco-friendly options. Two common barriers that consumers experience when purchasing green products are: 1) perceived difficulty of buying green, and 2) skepticism about the quality of green brands. Avocado Co-op is attempting […]

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Incorporating Tumour Heterogeneity into Spatial Optimization of Radiation Therapy of Brain Tumours

Mathematics is frequently viewed as the natural language of science, and has already proven its vital importance through its myriad of applications in engineering and the physical sciences. However, the involvement of mathematics into the life sciences remains relatively unexplored. In particular, the application of mathematics in medicine is a fascinating subset of applied mathematics […]

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Quantifying the value and risk of restoring wetland habitats in agricultural landscapes

Wetlands provide critical habitat and valuable ecosystem services. Land use conversion in Ontario, however, has led to substantial wetland loss. The restoration of wetlands on agricultural properties has the potential to offset wetland loss, yet these wetlands are also susceptible to contamination by pesticides. Our research will therefore establish: (1) to what degree restored wetlands […]

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Quantifying the value and risk of restoring wetland habitats in agricultural landscapes – Year two

Wetlands provide critical habitat and valuable ecosystem services. Land use conversion in Ontario, however, has led to substantial wetland loss. The restoration of wetlands on agricultural properties has the potential to offset wetland loss, yet these wetlands are also susceptible to contamination by pesticides. Our research will therefore establish: (1) to what degree restored wetlands […]

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Effectiveness of vegetation and habitat characteristics as predictors of insect parasitoid populations

Climate change, land development, invasive species, and other disturbances can alter the composition, structure, and functions of native vegetation across landscapes. These disturbances also impact insect parasitoids, which are a key, and often overlooked, component of biodiversity. By their ability to control other insect populations, they are integral for fostering resilient and functional forests. Understanding […]

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