BIGMATH: Stochastic Geometric modelling and 3D image analysis for human face prostheses

My name is Filipa Valdeira, I am from Lisbon (Portugal) where I have completed an Integrated Master in Aerospace Engineering, with a specialization in Systems and Control. During the last year of the degree, I conducted my Master’s Thesis on the topics of optimization and statistics. This sparked my interest in optimization, big data and machine learning related problems. Hence, after graduation, I have enrolled as a PhD student at the University of Milan, as part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action – Innovative Training Network/European Industrial Doctorate BIGMATH.

Why I applied to the BIGMATH Marie Skłodowska-Curie fellowship

My main motivation was the chance to research and work on the field of Big Data, where I would like to develop my career. Furthermore, I was drawn by the possibility of incorporating both an academic and industrial component, which is not a common opportunity and leads to a more complete and diverse background.

What I will do during the fellowship

I am involved in the project “Stochastic Geometric modelling and 3D image analysis for human face prostheses ”. The main goal of the project is to develop a statistical model of human faces, using data from 3D scans of real people. In particular, the focus will lie on modelling detailed segments of the human face such as noses or ears, which will be used in the prosthetic industry. My specific goal will be to develop adequate models and statistical tools able to deal with the non-Euclidean nature of the space and with predicted data problems, including missing and noisy data or alignment of the samples.