My research focuses on the topics of imaging and underwater robotics.  Research areas include: vision-aided navigation, underwater image processing, simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM), multiple vehicle networks, long-term autonomy, and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).  My methodology is to address fundamental enabling theoretical and technical issues within the above areas, and to experimentally verify my results within real-world robotic tasks.

The application arena where I have applied my research is in the use of underwater robotics to support ocean science and industry.  Platforms I work with include remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), gliders and AUVs.  Robotic survey and mapping projects that I have/are involved in include coral-reef assessment, benthic habitat survey and classification, autonomous ship-hull inspection, the study of coastal methane seeps for marine geology, and the use of robotics for marine archeology (ranging from ancient Greek shipwrecks to the RMS Titanic).  I collaborate with colleagues at MIT, Johns Hopkins, Olin College, and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, and frequently participate in at-sea expeditions.

For a current listing of my publications please visit www.whoi.edu/people/reustice