Research activity, centres and facilities

Read the latest published papers from our academics and researchers. Find out more about how we group our core research and the facilities we use to bolster our excellent research reputation.

Faculty of Engineering & Design research centres and institutes

researcher in chemical engineering laboratory

Our centres and institutes carry out research based around three large-scale themes: digital, health and sustainability.

Building Research Park facilities

Details about the research facilities available at the Building Research Park at Wroughton.

New VSimulators 'skyscraper simulator' facility opened at the University of Bath

Guests and University of Bath staff inside the VSimulators platform

A moving chamber equipped with virtual reality projection will aid study of people’s reactions to different buildings, including swaying skyscrapers and bridges

Research impact

Our research has results with long-lasting benefits for industry, society and the environment. We submitted nine impact case studies to the REF 2021. Read about the impact our researchers are having.

Improving composite wing part manufacture

Professor Richard Butler looks at a wing skin panel undergoing a strength test in our Structures Lab.

Our modelling and testing methodologies have improved the manufacturing process of commercial aircraft wings, resulting in better quality parts.

Visualising the last mile of electricity networks

Our academic stands in front of a pylon while holding a small model pylon in their hand.

Our methodologies can predict energy usage profiles and peak demand by monitoring only ~ 0.01% of the substations in an electricity distribution network.

Saving structures across the globe

Antony Darby tests the strength of a concrete beam in our structures lab.

We’ve developed assessment and strengthening techniques for ageing concrete bridges and structures. Our guidance is used by consulting engineers worldwide.

Protecting critical infrastructure from extreme space weather and radio jamming

A researcher in snow protection clothes smiles into the camera against a polar background.

Through space-based communication research we’ve influenced public policy and security. Our algorithms help keep GPS systems functioning and accurate.

Printing a design revolution with additive manufacture

Professor Andrew Plummer holds a hydraulic ankle prototype next to a robotic arm.

Using metal powder laser melting, our research on industrial 3D printing has helped to improve processes and develop new products with our industrial partners.

PhD researchers

Read about the difference our students' research is making.

A more adventurous approach to prosthetics research

quadruplegic holds up right arm with prosthetic in air while talking to student standing to their left and who also wears a prosthetic arm.

PhD researcher, Sam Walters is developing a hybrid prosthetic wrist unit for amputees. They tell us about their research and how they hope it can better lives.

A flourishing new business: extracting essential oils from discarded flowers

With a PhD in Chemical Engineering and startup business funding, Parimala Shivaprasad is tackling the problem of India's floral waste.

Who, why, and for how long? Understanding public support for Low Emission Zones in the UK

A female student sat at desk in seminar room smiling to camera

PhD graduate, Lois tells us about her research into transport, behaviour and society and her PhD experience with the AAPS Centre for Doctoral Training.