Mike Bergin, PhD
Sternberg Family Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Duke University
He/him
Description: The past several years have seen explosive growth in the development of environmental sensors, in particular those that measure air pollutants such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5). A similar revolution has taken place in the development of data analytics techniques, that hold great promise in analyzing sophisticated existing and emerging data sets related to environmental and human health. Emerging data sets include environmental sensor data, satellite imagery, fitness device data, and a wealth of information from social media and web browsing. At present, there is a critical need to develop broader collaborations amongst disciplines (i.e. environmental science and computer science) and to further develop the field of Environmental and Human Health Data Analytics (EHHDA). With this in mind, I will discuss several recent studies conducted by my research group and our collaborators, including the application of low-cost air quality sensors to determine personal exposure and the influence of indoor air filtration on children’s health. I will also discuss the application of machine learning to managing low-cost sensor networks. In addition, I will discuss the use of satellite imagery to determine highly spatially resolved neighborhood level PM2.5 concentrations, air pollution hot spots, and plumes. Lastly, I will describe a deep learning approach to image analyses for facial recognition that holds great promise in linking human sentiment with environmental contaminants. Overall, the theme of this talk will highlight the exciting future of EHHDA and will emphasize the need to further develop key collaborations across disciplines.
About the speaker: My general research focus is on the influence of air pollution on both climate and human health as well as renewable energy production. My specific interest is particulate matter (PM), and I have done a wide range of studies on the emission, formation, deposition and impacts of PM both pristine regions of the world (Greenland and the Himalaya), as well as hazy regions (the Southeastern US, China, and Asia). More recently I have been studying the influence of PM on human health with an emphasis on determining the relative contributions of both indoor and outdoor sources to acute health impacts. I am also involved in developing and deploying the next generation of air quality sensors to inform citizens on the quality of the air they are breathing so that they can make informed decisions to improve their air. In addition, my group is working closely with machine learning experts to develop and apply new approaches to sensor network calibration and maintenance, satellite image analyses, human sentiment evaluation, and solar energy production. My vision involves combining a multidisciplinary, multicultural approach to research and education that brings together researchers from around the world to collectively work together to make the air cleaner.
Thursday, January 30, 2025, 12:00-1:15pm Eastern
Field Auditorium, Room 1112, Grainger Hall (9 Circuit Drive, Durham, NC)
This seminar will also be presented live via Panopto. Click HERE for the livestream.