Research and Innovation

Robotics platform for Research Technicians wins £2 million UKRI fund

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A cropped photograph of the front entrance to the School of Mechanical Engineering building.
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Innovation for industry

Computer-based flow modelling developed by our researchers is enabling companies in the commercial and public sectors to improve their products

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Drill on black background
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New joint-replacement standards

Advanced methods for testing joint replacements developed by our researchers have helped to set new international standards, helping over 1m patients

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Professor John Fisher using iMBE equipment
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Research and innovation

We have a track record of delivering high-quality research to solve real world problems with particular expertise in: engineering systems and design; thermofluids, surfaces and interfaces; medical devices and regenerative medicine.

We have strong links with the Leeds Institute for Fluid Dynamics, Robotics Leeds, the School of Medicine and the Faculty of Biological Sciences.

96%

of research outputs submitted

“world-leading” and “internationally excellent” – REF 2021

Over 110

academic and research staff

working with over 115 PhD researchers to deliver high-impact research

88%

of the Engineering Environment submission

“world-leading” – REF 2021

Our research

Biomimetic Medical Robotics Institute of Design, Robotics and Optimisation

Institute of Design, Robotics and Optimisation

We have expertise in design systems, solid mechanics, robotics and mechatronics, dynamics and control and optimisation.

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Thermofluids research Institute of Thermofluids

Institute of Thermofluids

We work to meet the needs of industry and address major societal issues in areas such as energy, transport, sustainability, nanotechnology and healthcare.

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Functional surfaces Institute of Functional Surfaces

Institute of Functional Surfaces

Our research institute is underpinned by scientific and engineering excellence across our core areas of expertise; tribology, corrosion and surface engineering.

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Medical researcher Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering

Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering

Driven by clinical challenges, we undertake solution focused pioneering research and education in medical technology. We innovate and translate novel therapies into practical clinical applications.

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Mechanical Engineering studentMore on Research degrees

Research degrees

Studying for a PhD will be a journey that will stimulate your passion for your subject and push you to reach your potential.

Search our projects, ideas, funding opportunities, research areas and PhD supervisors.

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Collaborate with us

IFS researcher Working with business

Working with business

Sometimes you need specialist knowledge to help your business thrive, grow and innovate. Our aim is to make it as easy as possible for you to work with us, to access our research, expertise, training and facilities.

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Tensile testing facility Access our facilities

Access our facilities

We are committed to sharing our facilities and associated expertise with external academic and industrial collaborators. We offer access to specialist facilities and laboratories across a wide range of areas, from tribology to aerospace and medical engineering.

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