We develop optical sensing technology and novel photonic based instrumentation to tackle challenging measurement problems, whilst offering scope for more speculative, blue skies research.

The Centre for Engineering Photonics is an internationally leading research centre for optical sensing and instrumentation. Our expertise is truly multi-disciplinary, covering technology used within aerospace, agrifood, energy, environment, health, transport and manufacturing.

The emphasis of our activities lies in the design, development and integration of instrumentation to tackle engineering measurement problems.

Our broad research portfolio encompasses fibre optic sensors, optical gas sensing, optical flow measurement, optical interferometric NDT, optical imaging and signal processing applied to a broad range of sectors.

We offer a stimulating environment for research students, with access to state-of-the-art facilities. Our broad remit ensures that as well as becoming experts in their own field, each student is exposed to a range of optical technologies and techniques. Much of the research is interdisciplinary, offering the opportunity to work in collaboration with researchers from other disciplines.

Our team has been awarded a number of academic awards and fellowships in recognition of the excellence of their research, including:

  • - a unique fellowship designed to return STEM professionals to their careers after a break
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Research is supported by the Research Councils, Royal Society, European Commission and a range of industrial clients. We have a track record of developing practical, portable instrumentation that may be used off-site to perform measurements in challenging environments.

Members of the Centre have been shortlisted and finalists in numerous competitions, including:

  • (2015) IET Innovation Awards 2015. Finalists. 'Measurement in Action' category (multi-surface vibrometry system).
  • (2015) (OBN) awards. Shortlisted. ‘Best public-private collaboration' (the DIABLO consortium).
  • Further information about these awards may be found on the .