The Materials and Engineering Research Institute (MERI) is a dynamic interdisciplinary research institute dedicated to addressing industrial problems through the application of fundamental science and engineering. Our experienced team has a highly successful track record applying cutting edge research to find innovative solutions to industry problems. The quality of our research has been confirmed by the results of the national Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014, where 56% of the submitted research received the prestigious 4* and 3* rating as world-leading and internationally excellent.
From material analysis to infrastructure management our solutions generate real competitive advantage. Our research and consultancy activities are supported by a large advanced equipment base, ranging from the latest electron microscopes to high performance computing hardware.
As an institute committed to world-class, multidisciplinary research, MERI offers a vibrant community in which postgraduate researchers work closely with experienced academics to develop their knowledge and expertise.
Working towards your research degree with MERI, you could benefit from:
- Supervision by an active researcher in your chosen area
- Access to excellent facilities and learning resources
- Part-time lecturing and tutorial work to broaden your experience
- Funding to help with your study costs
- Lively debate and discussion with colleagues
Our current students are studying topics across the full range of materials and engineering research pursued in MERI, and are encouraged to disseminate their research by publishing papers and attending conferences with other MERI staff.
Research centres
MERI is organised into four primary research centres, plus a consultancy unit (MARS CIC). The activities of each research centre are carried out within focused research groups.
Centre for Automation and Robotics Research
The Centre consists of two research groups and a consultancy arm:
- Mobile Machines and Vision Laboratory
- Systems Modelling and Integration and Sheaf Solutions consultancy
Thin Films Research Centre
The Centre has five research areas:
- Thin Films and Sensors
- Physical Vapour Deposition
- Semiconductor Characterisation
- Theory of Semiconductor Materials and Optics
- Photovoltaics
Polymers, Nanocomposites and Modelling Research Centre
The Centre has two research groups:
- Polymers, Composites and Spectroscopy Group
- Materials and Fluid Flow Modelling Group
Structural Materials and Integrity Research Centre
The SMIRC consists of three research groups:
- Centre for Corrosion Technology
- Centre for Infrastructure Management
- Metal Joining Research Centre
Project List: