CMS Ocean Technology Group
Heather Broadbent
Research Scientist, Biological Oceanographer, College of Marine Science
Ph.D., ±«Óãtv, 2012
Office Phone: 727-553-1287
Email: hbroadbent@mail.usf.edu
CV: View PDF
CMS Ocean Technology Group
Research: Sensor Development, Biologging Technology, Underwater Video Technology,
Habitat Mapping, Sea Turtle Characterization, Autonomous Systems (AUVs), Water Column
Analysis
Over the last 20 years, I have participated in research that miniaturizes classical oceanographic laboratory instruments into in-situ microsystems that measure physical water mass structure. One instrument developed is a CTD Biotag, which is a small animal-attached device that measures conductivity, temperature, depth, acceleration, light, compass direction, wet/dry and GPS location. It was designed to capture direct qualitative information on the physical microstructure of the foraging environment and microhabitat of small to mid-sized marine predators.
Currently my research is focused on using an underwater video system (C-BASS) to investigate the spatiotemporal distribution and marine habitat use of endangered/ threatened sea turtle species in the Gulf of Mexico.
Additionally, I work with the Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUVs) group researching water column analysis, climate change, harmful algal blooms and marine animal tracking.