Dania Tamayo-Vera will defend her PhD in Environmental Sciences thesis titled "Application Of Evolutionary Algorithms and Machine Learning in Agroclimatic Studies: Enhancing Model Explainability and Performance Through AutoML" on October 22 at 9:00 am in AVC 278.

Abstract: 

This thesis examines the integration of machine learning (ML) models in agroclimatic research to address challenges posed by climate change. A systematic review highlights significant gaps in scalability and documentation in conventional ML methods, which hinder replicability and adaptability. To overcome these limitations, the research proposes the use of Automated Machine Learning (AutoML) frameworks to enhance scalability and performance. AutoML is positioned as a transformative tool for agroclimatic research, offering more efficient solutions for sustainable agriculture. This research introduces a novel metric that optimizes ML models not only for prediction accuracy but also for interpretability by stabilizing SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) values, which indicate the contribution of each feature to predictions. The thesis introduces the Precise and Interpretable Multi-objective Optimization (PIMA) framework, an AutoML approach designed to optimize both predictive accuracy and model interpretability. PIMA, using the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II), minimizes Mean Squared Error (MSE) while stabilizing SHAP values. Experiments show that PIMA outperforms traditional AutoML frameworks like H2O, offering models that provide actionable insights for agricultural stakeholders. Using historical data and climate projections for Prince Edward Island (PEI), the study predicts a potential yield decline of up to 70% by the end of the century under the SSP5-8.5 scenario, highlighting the urgent need for adaptive farming practices and greenhouse gas reductions. The methodology is transferable to other regions and crops, offering a valuable tool for future agricultural planning. At the regional level, traditional ML models are applied to predict potato yield at the postal code level using climate, soil, and vegetation index data. SHAP analysis identified temperature and vegetation index as key predictors, while rainfall and soil retention were highlighted as important factors influencing yield outcomes in the non-irrigated region of PEI.

Everyone is welcome.

We are excited to invite you to an upcoming webinar in collaboration with Mitacs and the University of Prince Edward Island, tailored for students, faculty, and industry and community partners. This event will showcase how Mitacs can empower your research and innovation projects with essential funding and partnerships.

Webinar Details:

Topic: Driving Innovation: How Mitacs Can Support Your Journey
Date: October 22, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM (ADT)
Speaker: Ives Kennedy Eyquem, Business Development Advisor, Mitacs

Registration Link: Sign up here

During this session, you will discover how Mitacs can provide the support needed to drive your innovative projects to success. Whether you’re looking to collaborate on cutting-edge research or secure funding to bring your ideas to life, this webinar is a must-attend! 

Who should attend?

• Faculty members seeking partnerships and funding for research projects
• Students eager to pursue research opportunities and gain industry connections
• Industry and Community partners interested in collaboration opportunities with UPEI
• Any other interested participants looking to learn more about research and innovation funding opportunities 

We look forward to having you at the webinar and exploring how Mitacs can help advance your research journey.

If you have any questions, please reach out to the Office of Commercialization, Industry & Innovation at ocii@upei.ca.

Do you know what to do if there is a building evacuation? Are you a chief warden, floor warden, or guardian for your building? Do you have questions about your role as a warden or guardian or the evacuation procedures for your building?

UPEI Health, Safety, and Environment, and Security Services will hold a building emergency plan session for chief wardens, floor wardens, and guardians on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at 9:00 am in Bill and Denise Andrew Hall Room 142. 

Please let hse@upei.ca know if you are interested in attending.

The UPEI Health and Wellness Centre is offering COVID-19 vaccine appointments throughout November for all students, faculty, and staff.

The updated COVID-19 vaccine is designed to target current variants more effectively, boosting your immunity and reducing the risk of severe symptoms. Protect yourself and those around you by scheduling your appointment today.

To book a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, email healthcentre@upei.ca with “COVID” in the subject line. Also, members of the campus community attending the flu vaccine clinics on October 23, 24, or 30 may book their COVID-19 vaccine appointment at that time. 

Important details:

• It is recommended that booster doses of COVID-19 vaccine are scheduled 3-6 months after your last dose or 3-6 months after COVID-19 illness (whichever is later).
• Vaccines are provided at no cost.
• Please note that we cannot administer COVID-19 vaccines to children under 12 years of age.
• Bring a valid provincial health card or your student ID for registration.
• A 15-minute observation period is required after your vaccination to monitor for any adverse reactions. Please plan your visit accordingly.

Protect yourself and help to reduce the spread in your community. Get vaccinated this November!

The UPEI Health and Wellness Centre will offer flu vaccine clinics in October to all students as well as faculty, staff, and their families.

Flu clinic schedule:

• Wednesday, October 23, 10:00 am-3:00 pm, McMillan Hall, W.A. Murphy Student Centre
• Thursday, October 24, 1:00–7:00 pm, McMillan Hall, W.A. Murphy Student Centre 
• Wednesday, October 30, 12:00 noon–7:00 pm, The McCain Foundation Learning Commons Atrium, Atlantic Vet College

Important details:

• Vaccines are administered on a first-come, first-served basis—no appointment is necessary.
• This service is free of charge.
• We are unable to administer vaccines to children aged 2 and under.
• Please bring a valid provincial health card or student ID for registration.
• You are required to wait 15 minutes in the post-vaccine waiting area after receiving your flu shot to ensure no allergic reaction. Please plan your time accordingly.

COVID-19 vaccines will be available in November. Members of the campus community who attend one of the flu vaccine clinics can book an appointment for their COVID-19 vaccine at that time, or they can email the UPEI Health and Wellness Centre at healthcentre@upei.ca to make an appointment. If you are booking an appointment by email, please put COVID in the subject line. 

Stay healthy this flu season - come get vaccinated!

Unlock the basics of intellectual property! The Catherine Callbeck Centre for Entrepreneurship is pleased to present Dr. André Pelletier, Regional Intellectual Property Counselor with Springboard Atlantic, as the facilitator of a session that will provide an introduction to the key concepts of intellectual property, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Learn how IP can protect your creations, support your business, and help you leverage intangible assets. Ideal for innovators, entrepreneurs, and anyone new to the world of IP.

The session will take place on Thursday, October 24, at 1:00-3:00 pm in the Catherine Callbeck Centre for Entrepreneurship, Robertson Library (Room 201), UPEI. It is open to UPEI and Holland College students in any field or year of study.

Register here!

André has spent his professional life working across various industries and in various roles connected to applied chemistry, engineering, and innovation project management. His academic background is in macromolecular organic chemistry and natural materials characterization and processing, while his industrial experience includes roles in oil and gas, pulp and paper, ore refining, and power generation.

Beyond these technical roles, André has also worked in contract R&D, innovation program, and project management for the New Brunswick Innovation Foundation, the Research and Productivity Council, and Springboard Atlantic. With these organizations, he has worked with companies across Atlantic Canada and beyond to grow the innovation ecosystem in the region. He and his colleagues are helping to grow awareness of the importance of intellectual property when looking to develop technology and business ventures. 

The New Orford String Quartet will perform on the SDU Stage in the Dr. Steel Recital Hall on November 1, 2024, at 7:30 pm. Comprised of elite orchestral leaders and soloists Andrew Wan, Jonathan Crow, Sharon Wei, and Brian Manker, the quartet has been described by the Toronto Star as “nothing short of electrifying.”

This is a rare opportunity for Island audiences to hear a truly world-class string quartet. The program will feature Mozart's emotionally intense Quartet in D minor; the PEI premiere of Métis composer Ian Cusson's Yume (Dreams), inspired by Akira Kurosawa's film of the same name; and Franz Schubert's Death and the Maiden, a masterpiece of haunting melodies and vigorous intensity.

Accessible parking is available, and the theatre has an accessible entrance via elevator.

Presented by the Institute of Island Studies at UPEI, the Island Lecture Series on October 22 will celebrate the launch of "Finding Home at the Harbour" by Barbara Palmer Rousseau. Weaving natural history with her own story and illustrations, Rousseau highlights the resilience of the Island and its inhabitants to ongoing environmental change in this collection of illustrated essays published by Island Studies Press. The lecture and launch will be held from 7:00-8:30 pm in the Faculty Lounge, SDU Main Building Room 201, University of Prince Edward Island. 

A frequent summer visitor to PEI, Rousseau experienced its true beauty when she moved here from Ontario. At her cottage in St. Peters Harbour on the northeast shore, she learned the seasonal rhythms of spring peepers and barefoot beach walks, fall hurricanes, and winter freeze-up. Her creativity returned as she began to sketch her fox family neighbours, the nearby dunes, and the sand-locked lighthouse. Her essays reflect on the fluid nature of the shore and tell a story of adaptation and hope.

Rousseau moved to PEI in 2020 to return to school after a 30-year career in Ottawa’s software development industry. She is currently completing a Master of Arts in Island Studies (MAIS) at UPEI, studying the environmental history of the north shore dunes and the resulting implications for the future of the Island.

The event is free, and all are welcome. Books will be available for purchase. For more information, contact Bren Simmers at Island Studies Press, 902-566-0386 or ispstaff@upei.ca.

All members of the UPEI research community are invited to attend a presentation about research security by Beth Canin, Regional Advisor (Atlantic), Research Security Centre. The presentation will cover information about the National Security Guidelines for Research Partnerships and the Policy on Sensitive Technology Research and Affiliations of Concern (STRAC) and how these requirements relate to all tri-agency research grants and all CFI grants.

The information session will take place in the Teaching and Learning Centre, Robertson Library Annex, Room 230, on October 24 from 12:00-1:00 pm. There will be an option to join virtually for those who are unable to attend in person. 

Bring your lunch; coffee and treats will be provided. Please RSVP here. 

The UPEI Department of Music hosts pianist Peter Allen in concert on Thursday, October 24, at 7:30 pm, in the Dr. Steel Recital Hall, Steel Building.

Peter Allen is one of Canada’s most respected and talented musicians, known nationally as a concert pianist, composer, conductor, and teacher.  He will perform works by Haydn, Rachmaninoff, Ravel, and some of his own bagatelles.

As a concert pianist, he has been often heard on CBC regional and national radio and is well known to audiences in the Maritimes and throughout Canada for his captivating interpretations. He has recorded two solo piano CDs, one featuring some of his own very popular bagatelles, an all-Haydn disc, and numerous duo CDs with flautist Patricia Creighton. He is currently associate professor of piano at Dalhousie University's Department of Music where he teaches piano and orchestration and is a guest conductor for the Dalhousie Symphony Orchestra.

Hey Arts students! The Dean of Arts warmly invites you to our monthly Fall Fika in the Faculty Lounge, SDU Main Building, Room 201. Fika is a Swedish tradition that encourages taking a break to enjoy coffee and snacks while catching up with friends. There will be hot drinks, yummy treats, and engaging conversations with your classmates and faculty. We hope to see you there!

Dates:

• Tuesday, October 22, 10:00—11:00 am
•  Tuesday, November 12, 10:00—11:00 am
•  Monday, December 2, 11:00 am—12:00 pm

The educational display, titled "Ungrievable Lives: Islamophobia Past and Present," in the Department of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Human Rights, Kelley Memorial Building, Room 115, has been extended to October 25.

The display explores the origins of Islamophobia, its widespread effects, and the vital importance of addressing it within our university community.

Event highlights:

• In-depth presentations: Discover the historical roots of Islamophobia, orientalism, and anti-Arab racism, examining how it has evolved over time and how it manifests in our daily lives and institutions.
• Case studies: Delve into how the war on Palestine and the War on Terrorism exemplify Islamophobia in action, shaping public perception, policy decisions, and global narratives about Muslims and Arabs.
• Interactive discussions: Engage in meaningful conversations about the significance of recognizing and combating Islamophobia, and how it can foster a more inclusive campus environment.

Why understanding Islamophobia matters:

Understanding Islamophobia is crucial for several reasons:

1. Combatting stereotypes: By recognizing the origins and impacts of Islamophobia, we can challenge harmful stereotypes that perpetuate discrimination and division. This understanding helps us foster empathy and respect among diverse communities.
2. Promoting inclusivity: Universities are places for learning and growth. Addressing Islamophobia is essential for creating an inclusive environment where all students feel safe, valued, and able to express their identities.
3. Global perspectives: Islamophobia affects millions worldwide, particularly in conflict areas. By studying its manifestations, such as in the war on Palestine and the war on terrorism, we gain insights into broader issues of human rights, justice, and global solidarity.

The northeast entrance of the Kelley Memorial Building features an automatic door with a 36-inch clearance. The door swings outward and leads to a ramp that is 62 inches wide. Please note that the ramp makes a sharp right turn, after which the width reduces to 36 inches.

At the end of the ramp, you will find the exhibit entrance, which has a door clearance of 32 inches and a small bump at the threshold. We encourage all visitors to reach out if you require additional assistance or have any questions regarding accessibility.

Daylight Savings Time ends on November 3. 'Tis the season...for seasonal affective disorder. Prevent it with a light therapy lamp from the Robertson Library! Join us on Monday, October 21, at 12 noon in RL Computer Lab 265 for a demonstration. Lamps are available to attendees for checkout after the demonstration. Registration is recommended but not required to ensure that we have enough lamps on hand: https://forms.gle/YGJfAixXwdYhMyp5A 

Dania Tamayo-Vera will defend her PhD in Environmental Sciences thesis titled "Application Of Evolutionary Algorithms and Machine Learning in Agroclimatic Studies: Enhancing Model Explainability and Performance Through AutoML" on October 22 at 9:00 am in AVC 278.

Abstract: 

This thesis examines the integration of machine learning (ML) models in agroclimatic research to address challenges posed by climate change. A systematic review highlights significant gaps in scalability and documentation in conventional ML methods, which hinder replicability and adaptability. To overcome these limitations, the research proposes the use of Automated Machine Learning (AutoML) frameworks to enhance scalability and performance. AutoML is positioned as a transformative tool for agroclimatic research, offering more efficient solutions for sustainable agriculture. This research introduces a novel metric that optimizes ML models not only for prediction accuracy but also for interpretability by stabilizing SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) values, which indicate the contribution of each feature to predictions. The thesis introduces the Precise and Interpretable Multi-objective Optimization (PIMA) framework, an AutoML approach designed to optimize both predictive accuracy and model interpretability. PIMA, using the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II), minimizes Mean Squared Error (MSE) while stabilizing SHAP values. Experiments show that PIMA outperforms traditional AutoML frameworks like H2O, offering models that provide actionable insights for agricultural stakeholders. Using historical data and climate projections for Prince Edward Island (PEI), the study predicts a potential yield decline of up to 70% by the end of the century under the SSP5-8.5 scenario, highlighting the urgent need for adaptive farming practices and greenhouse gas reductions. The methodology is transferable to other regions and crops, offering a valuable tool for future agricultural planning. At the regional level, traditional ML models are applied to predict potato yield at the postal code level using climate, soil, and vegetation index data. SHAP analysis identified temperature and vegetation index as key predictors, while rainfall and soil retention were highlighted as important factors influencing yield outcomes in the non-irrigated region of PEI.

Everyone is welcome.

We are excited to invite you to an upcoming webinar in collaboration with Mitacs and the University of Prince Edward Island, tailored for students, faculty, and industry and community partners. This event will showcase how Mitacs can empower your research and innovation projects with essential funding and partnerships.

Webinar Details:

Topic: Driving Innovation: How Mitacs Can Support Your Journey
Date: October 22, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM (ADT)
Speaker: Ives Kennedy Eyquem, Business Development Advisor, Mitacs

Registration Link: Sign up here

During this session, you will discover how Mitacs can provide the support needed to drive your innovative projects to success. Whether you’re looking to collaborate on cutting-edge research or secure funding to bring your ideas to life, this webinar is a must-attend! 

Who should attend?

• Faculty members seeking partnerships and funding for research projects
• Students eager to pursue research opportunities and gain industry connections
• Industry and Community partners interested in collaboration opportunities with UPEI
• Any other interested participants looking to learn more about research and innovation funding opportunities 

We look forward to having you at the webinar and exploring how Mitacs can help advance your research journey.

If you have any questions, please reach out to the Office of Commercialization, Industry & Innovation at ocii@upei.ca.

The Scholarships and Awards Office has extended the deadline to apply for selected 2024 MacLauchlan Prizes for Effective Writing.

In the categories of "Faculty and Staff" and "UPEI Writing Centre," applications are encouraged to be submitted electronically to scholarships@upei.ca by October 25, 2024. Criteria and application forms for the two remaining prize categories can be found through the links below. Note that there are a number of awards available per category.

• MacLauchlan Prize for Effective Writing (Faculty and Staff)
• MacLauchlan Prize for Effective Writing (UPEI Writing)

For more information, please contact scholarships@upei.ca.

The UPEI Philosophy Reading Group will meet on Friday, October 18, from 3:00-4:00 pm, in the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre, 97 Queen Street, Charlottetown. All are welcome.

During this gathering, we will discuss French philosopher and musicologist Vladimir Jankélévitch's "The Bad Conscience." For further details about the book, go to https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/B/bo14824527.html

If you would like to attend, please reach out to Dr. Max Schaefer at mschaefer@upei.ca for more information.

Unlock the basics of intellectual property! The Catherine Callbeck Centre for Entrepreneurship is pleased to present Dr. André Pelletier, Regional Intellectual Property Counselor with Springboard Atlantic, as the facilitator of a session that will provide an introduction to the key concepts of intellectual property, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Learn how IP can protect your creations, support your business, and help you leverage intangible assets. Ideal for innovators, entrepreneurs, and anyone new to the world of IP.

The session will take place on Thursday, October 24, at 1:00-3:00 pm in the Catherine Callbeck Centre for Entrepreneurship, Robertson Library (Room 201), UPEI. It is open to UPEI and Holland College students in any field or year of study.

Register here!

André has spent his professional life working across various industries and in various roles connected to applied chemistry, engineering, and innovation project management. His academic background is in macromolecular organic chemistry and natural materials characterization and processing, while his industrial experience includes roles in oil and gas, pulp and paper, ore refining, and power generation.

Beyond these technical roles, André has also worked in contract R&D, innovation program, and project management for the New Brunswick Innovation Foundation, the Research and Productivity Council, and Springboard Atlantic. With these organizations, he has worked with companies across Atlantic Canada and beyond to grow the innovation ecosystem in the region. He and his colleagues are helping to grow awareness of the importance of intellectual property when looking to develop technology and business ventures. 

The TRC Mawi’omi, which was postponed in late September due to weather, will take place on Friday, October 25, in McMillan Hall, W.A. Murphy Student Centre. Attendees are asked to begin gathering in McMillan Hall at 9:30 am in time for the Grand Entry, which will take place at 10:00 am. 

The Mawi’omi will begin with the Grand Entry when all dancers and others will be welcomed into the circle. The host drum will be the LoneCry Singers; the head female dancer will be Kelly Sark; and the head male dancer will be Michael Julian. Doris Googoo, Faculty of Indigenous Knowledge, Education, Research, and Applied Studies, will give the Seven Sacred Teachings in Mi’kmaq and English. Dr. Wendy Rodgers, UPEI President and Vice-Chancellor, and Dr. Judy Clark, Elder-in-Residence, will give remarks.

Indigenous artisans will display their beading, basket weaving, and quill work. There will also be a table with medicines and waltes.

All members of the campus community are welcome to attend and are encouraged to wear orange shirts.

As well, the Robertson Library is hosting an educational display this month celebrating Mi'kmaq History Month, particularly the history and culture of Epekwitk.

Please note: The National Residential School Crisis Line offers emotional support and crisis referral services for residential school Survivors and their families. The toll-free crisis line number is 1-866-925-4419. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Dania Tamayo-Vera will defend her PhD in Environmental Sciences thesis titled "Application Of Evolutionary Algorithms and Machine Learning in Agroclimatic Studies: Enhancing Model Explainability and Performance Through AutoML" on October 22 at 9:00 am in AVC 278.

Abstract: 

This thesis examines the integration of machine learning (ML) models in agroclimatic research to address challenges posed by climate change. A systematic review highlights significant gaps in scalability and documentation in conventional ML methods, which hinder replicability and adaptability. To overcome these limitations, the research proposes the use of Automated Machine Learning (AutoML) frameworks to enhance scalability and performance. AutoML is positioned as a transformative tool for agroclimatic research, offering more efficient solutions for sustainable agriculture. This research introduces a novel metric that optimizes ML models not only for prediction accuracy but also for interpretability by stabilizing SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) values, which indicate the contribution of each feature to predictions. The thesis introduces the Precise and Interpretable Multi-objective Optimization (PIMA) framework, an AutoML approach designed to optimize both predictive accuracy and model interpretability. PIMA, using the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II), minimizes Mean Squared Error (MSE) while stabilizing SHAP values. Experiments show that PIMA outperforms traditional AutoML frameworks like H2O, offering models that provide actionable insights for agricultural stakeholders. Using historical data and climate projections for Prince Edward Island (PEI), the study predicts a potential yield decline of up to 70% by the end of the century under the SSP5-8.5 scenario, highlighting the urgent need for adaptive farming practices and greenhouse gas reductions. The methodology is transferable to other regions and crops, offering a valuable tool for future agricultural planning. At the regional level, traditional ML models are applied to predict potato yield at the postal code level using climate, soil, and vegetation index data. SHAP analysis identified temperature and vegetation index as key predictors, while rainfall and soil retention were highlighted as important factors influencing yield outcomes in the non-irrigated region of PEI.

Everyone is welcome.