Southern Miss Marine Science Student Receives Scholarship to Continue Research
Mon, 08/19/2024 - 12:36pm | By: Gabriela Shinskie
Olagoke Daramola, a marine science Ph.D. student in The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) School of Ocean Science and Engineering (SOSE) received the prestigious Paros-Digiquartz Scholarship from the Marine Technology Society (MTS) to forward his research on 3-D underwater mapping from a novel LiDAR system.
“The recognition of my research efforts motivates me to continue to aspire and strive for excellence” expressed Olagoke.
A native of Nigeria, Daramola arrived at Southern Miss in January 2021 and immersed himself in hydrographic projects. His focus is generating enhanced point clouds using the Pulsed Laser Line Scanner (PLLS-360°), a unique 360° LiDAR system collaboratively developed by USM and BeamSea Associates LLC. Once underwater, the LiDAR system can scan objects on the seafloor, sea surface and in the water column. Some of these objects include shipwrecks, pipelines, surface ships, ice sheets, underwater structures and assets.
“I’m developing a processing workflow for the PLLS-360° for 3D reconstruction of underwater scenes from LiDAR full waveforms.” said Daramola.
The Paros-Digiquartz Scholarship is open to MTS members currently enrolled as full-time undergraduate or graduate students focusing on marine instruments at a university. The 2024 MTS Scholarship recipients display academic excellence and dedication to future marine technology research. Daramola expressed the importance of receiving the scholarship and the aid it provides towards his educational expenses.
Dr. Gero Nootz, Assistant Professor of Ocean Engineering, is proud of Daramola’s continued accomplishments within the program.
“Throughout his time with me, Olagoke has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication and responsibility. His commitment to academic excellence and his high regard among peers has set him apart as a remarkable student and a true asset to my research group and our program. Olagoke's research on underwater LIDAR systems showcases his innovative spirit and profound impact on the field of ocean engineering,” said Nootz.
Dr. Robert Leaf, SOSE Interim Director, credits innovative research and the program’s leadership in marine science for contributing to Daramola’s success.
“The University of Southern Mississippi's School of Ocean Science and Engineering is immensely proud that Mr. Olagoke Daramola has been honored with the prestigious Paros-Digiquartz Scholarship from the Marine Technology Society. This accolade reflects Olagoke's outstanding academic achievements, innovative approach to marine instrumentation, and commitment to advancing marine technology,” said Leaf.
Daramola anticipates graduating in 2025.
PLLS-360° LiDAR point cloud shows a small boat wreck at the Phil Forster State Park dive site in Florida.
Learn more about USM’s School of Ocean Science and Engineering and how to be a part of the growing blue economy and contributor to creating a livable Gulf Coast.