General Engineering and Materials Research 中文|
The university has selected the area of General Engineering as one of its major research strengths for investment and growth. Within this general area, its materials and engineering research strengths have been integrated into a single composite of a number of separate research groups covering the continuum from materials science to engineered materials and related applications in an integrative, interactive, interdisciplinary and synergistic manner.
Materials research is undertaken in the Institute for Materials Research and Innovation (IMRI) whereas research within the area of Mechanical Structures is carried out within the School of Engineering and Design.
IMRI is a multi-disciplinary centre designed to cultivate research and innovation activities in collaboration with industry and other academic institutions. The centre leads the UK and is internationally known for its strong applied materials science and engineering applications through the development of new, designer and novel smart and multifunctional materials (fibers, films, foams and particles) at nano and micro levels, as well as associated processing technologies that strive at favourably competing in the global marketplace. Established application areas include Smart Materials and Systems, Microsystems and Technologies, Medical and Healthcare Devices, Specialty Composites, Technical Textiles, Fire Materials, and Modelling and Simulation. There are dedicated laboratories in these areas of activity and state-of-the-art materials fabrication, characterisation and testing laboratories complemented by a suite of materials modelling capabilities.
IMRI offers postgraduate education at Masters and PhD levels. The MSc degree programs are based on flexible delivery of short modules. PhD degree programs are offered through the conventional route and also by Publication, the latter option being most appropriate for candidates who work in industry and R&D organisations.
Technology transfer activities range from Continuous Professional Developments courses, PhD studies undertaken in industry and development of Spin Off companies based on home grown Intellectual Property portfolio. CMRI also regularly carries out consultancy work for national as well as international clients. Staff also serve in technical advisory boards, international scientific panels and hold honorary appointments in overseas universities.
IMRI is currently funded by the UK government (EPSRC & Technology Strategy Board), local industry consortia (DIUS), the EU (FP7) and international industry collaborations.