BDFI continues to support grass roots research and multi disciplinary collaboration, as we announce five new research projects that have received BDFI funding:

• Aerial robots for sample collection in forests (Basaran Bahadir Kocer, Rodolfo Bezerra Nobrega, Charlotte Lloyd) - Canopy gradient of trees is a crucial but elusive part of forest ecosystems. How can we use aerial robots to help us monitor the ecosystem of the Amazon rainforest?

• Inclusive digital innovation through community technology in underserved communities (Dr Matt Dowse, Dr Lisa May-Thomas, Prof Martin Parker, Penelope D'Souza, Faira Butt, Sharon Tsang) - Can VR and XR technology, when deployed as a digital design method, enhance current Community Technology practices to further the inclusive and innovative design of safe online digital spaces for women from underserved communities?
  
  
• Measuring exercise more effectively (MEME): Using wearable devices to measure exercise (Hannah Sallis, Robyn Wootton, Andy Skinner, Andrew Ford, Jeffrey Lambert) - Depressive and anxiety disorders are the two most prevalent types of mental health condition and the leading cause of global disability. How can wearable devices help us understand how exercise helps to improve mental health?
  
  
• Think before you B(AI), structured decision-making for AI public buyers (Albert Sanchez-Graells, Rachel Coldicutt) - Public authorities are quickly deploying AI and forms of automation, procuring it from tech providers and consulting companies. This happens under fragmented and insufficient regulation, limited guidance, and a significant digital skills gap in the public sector. How can we help local authorities to make informed and correct decisions?
  
  
• Designing audience-centric VR (Harry Robert Wilson, Eirini Lampiri, Julia Ronneberger) - How can we make virtual reality experiences as safe, inclusive and comfortable as possible for the widest range of audiences? Through our collective practice-led research, this project will focus on shaping responsible and thought-provoking digital futures and digital innovation.

You can read about in more detail about each of these projects on our website.