Dr. Trinh Dang Mau, Dean of the Faculty of Biology and Environmental Science at the University of Science and Education – The University of Danang, is beginning an enriching academic adventure at the Marine Biological Laboratory, University of Chicago through the USAID Partnership for Higher Education Reform’s Visiting Scholar Program from October to November 2024.

With over a decade of experience in biodiversity research, Dr. Mau’s expertise spans the fields of zooplankton biodiversity, algae biology, and microplastics pollution in aquatic ecosystems. His research focuses on exploring the diversity and ecological roles of zooplankton, particularly Rotifera, within freshwater ecosystems—a critical yet understudied area in Southeast Asia. Dr. Mau employs advanced methodologies integrating image processing and data analysis to advance our understanding of the diversity of Rotifers and their applications in environmental assessment and aquaculture.

“I hope the insights from this research will deepen our understanding of zooplankton behaviors, particularly rotifers. Furthermore, the biological early warning systems we are developing, based on zooplankton swimming behavior, could play a vital role in enhancing ecosystem monitoring and management, providing valuable tools for researchers.” – said Dr. Mau.

During his exchange term at the Marine Biological Laboratory, Dr. Mau aims to enhance his research capabilities in zooplankton behavior analysis using computer vision and machine learning. He plans to collaborate closely with leading experts at the University of Chicago to develop a Biological Early Warning System for aquatic ecosystem monitoring, leveraging innovative technologies and methodologies. Dr. Mau’s immediate goal is to produce a manuscript on zooplankton swimming behavior for submission to prestigious scientific journals shortly after the program concludes.

Beyond research, Dr. Mau intends to foster international collaborations and bring back advanced research methodologies to his home institution. By sharing his acquired knowledge and skills, he seeks to elevate the research capabilities at the University of Science and Education, contributing to global scientific understanding and environmental conservation efforts.

The Visiting Scholar Program (VSP) under the USAID Partnership for Higher Education Reform project supports scholars from (1) Vietnam National University, (2) the University of Danang, and (3) Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh City. The goal is to improve the research and teaching capacity of scholars across Vietnam while expanding strategic partnerships with higher education institutions in the United States. In the Summer and Fall of 2024, the VSP will send a total of 21 scholars from Vietnam’s three major public university systems to host institutions in the United States for academic research and exchange experiences.