Design, Use and Trust in Space Related Citizen Science Projects

Overview

This research focuses on the design and/or development of a collaborative knowledge network platform that integrates Information Technology and design in the fields of Biology and Aerospace Engineering. The aim is to create an innovative system for managing and visualising data related to the viability of various biological species in extraterrestrial environments. The project will utilise a design science approach to prototype solutions that enhance scientific understanding and educational engagement in collaborative innovation challenges and citizen science initiatives.
This project is related to QUT's part in the ALEPH mission, which is funded under the Moon to Mars Demonstrator Mission grant, supported by the Australian Space Agency.

Research engagement

Prospective students participating in this project will:

• Conduct Literature Reviews: Compile and analyse existing research across IT, design, biology, and engineering to support project foundations.
• Engage in Design and Prototyping: Participate in the iterative design and/or development of a knowledge network platform, applying design science methodology.
• Develop and Implement User Research: Design surveys to assess user interaction and satisfaction with the platform.
• Collaborate Interdisciplinarily: Work alongside experts from multiple disciplines involved in an Australian space project.

These activities will equip students with hands-on experience in a cutting-edge research environment focused on space exploration technologies.

Research activities

Students will engage with relevant literature on topics such as collaborative innovation, knowledge sharing, IT design and innovation for space, as well as interface design and/or IT development tasks, data analysis and user research. They will work alongside biology, IT, education and aerospace experts from academia and industry.

Outcomes

The primary aim of this project is to develop a prototype of a collaborative knowledge network platform designed to support the aggregation, analysis, and visualisation of data concerning the viability of biological species in extraterrestrial environments from citizen-facing data. This interdisciplinary effort, integrating IT, design, biology, and engineering, seeks to create a functional prototype that can serve research, outreach and educational purposes. Expected outcomes include the enhancement of interdisciplinary research methods, contributions to academic publications and conferences, and the establishment of a basis for future projects and applications in space and other challenging areas.

Skills and experience

The ideal candidate for this project should possess proficiency in design/UI prototyping and/or development, with a strong passion for space exploration and an interest in data visualisation and/or user experience. Additional desirable qualities include knowledge in biology, education, and/or marketing. This combination will equip the student to effectively contribute to the development and enhancement of the collaborative knowledge network platform, ensuring it meets the interdisciplinary demands of this research. Candidates should be prepared to engage in both theoretical research and practical application tasks.

Start date

30 November, 2024

End date

28 February, 2025

Location

Queensland University of Technology, Garden's Point Campus

Keywords

• Space
• Biology
• Interface Design
• Data Analysis

Contact

Lauren Fell (l3.fell@qut.edu.au)