Within the broad spectrum of mechatronics and
material our core competencies lie in sensors, wireless communication, pattern
recognition, software development and ceramic materials.
Whilst around 30% of our research is sponsored by Large Enterprises (LEs), the
majority of our research is working with both hi- and low-tech small to medium
sized enterprises (SMEs); either helping the hi-tech SMEs get their products and
processes to market, or assisting low-tech SMEs differentiate themselves and
their products, often in traditional highly competitive markets, through
applying novel materials.
As an organisation we do nothing alone, always adopting a collaborative approach
to research, be it with industry, academia, trade bodies, professional bodies or
fellow researchers. It is through this approach that over the last 2 years we
have successfully worked with over 200 industrial companies and over 15 of
Europe’s leading research institutions.
We also see ourselves as fulfilling a vital educational role offering paid
internships to undergraduates and postgraduates from around Europe every year.
Helping bridge the gap between academia and industry, basic science and applied
research.
As a constituted not-for-profit research organisation limited by guarantee, we
also selectively choose to co-invest with industry to help build techno-economic
feasibility studies and it is our policy to not hold intellectual property.