Colin N. Brooks

Colin N. Brooks serves as a Senior Research Scientist at the Michigan Tech Research Institute (MTRI) and an Adjunct Lecturer in Biological Sciences at Michigan Technological University. His work integrates remote sensing technologies with environmental and infrastructure monitoring, specializing in Great Lakes ecosystem studies and transportation asset management.

Education:

• PhD in Biology
• Master of Environmental Management (MEM) in Resource Ecology

Dr. Brooks' research centers on aquatic and landscape ecology, with emphasis on invasive species mapping (particularly submerged aquatic vegetation like Eurasian watermilfoil) using Unmanned Aerial Systems. He develops automated analysis methods for transportation infrastructure assessment including road/bridge condition evaluation through multispectral sensing and LiDAR, and creates decision support systems for environmental management workflows.

His 15 most recent publications (2023-2025) reveal dominant trends in UAS-based infrastructure inspection (pavements, bridges, airfields) and environmental monitoring (copper tailings impacts, invasive species). Key methodological advances include machine learning integration for automated crack detection, 3D coastal mapping, and multitemporal analysis frameworks for ecosystem management.

Scientific Awards:
No awards were listed in the provided information.

Advising and Grants:
Student advising activities and specific grant funding details were not documented in the source materials.

Labs and Teams:
Dr. Brooks is actively engaged with the Great Lakes Research Center (GLRC), leading interdisciplinary projects that bridge remote sensing technology with practical solutions for environmental conservation and transportation infrastructure challenges.