Course summary

This Master of Research (MRes) programme focuses on the science, technology, and applications of sensors, preparing students for research careers in both academic and industrial settings. It covers a broad range of topics across the sensor science value chain, including the physical and biological principles of sensing, sensor design, sensor networks, data processing, and applications in healthcare and sustainability. The programme was designed to provide a structured learning experience that addresses national and international workforce demands, fostering leadership, innovation and interdisciplinary expertise in sensor science. More specifically, the programme’s educational aims are to: · Produce science and engineering leaders with a high level of understanding and skills in sensor technology, including fundamentals of sensor science, knowledge of sensor systems and applications and relevant hands-on skills. · Produce leaders who understand sustainable practice and can bring innovative solutions to pressing societal problems (e.g. those relating to our changing environment and health). · Encourage an appreciation of relevant technological opportunities for sensors and their networks, along with the business, road-mapping and cost-analysis tools used to assess the adoption of new technological solutions. · Foster an understanding of responsible research and innovation specific to sensor technologies and applications (e.g. data privacy and ownership, trustworthiness of sensor information and unintended use of sensor technologies). · Promote a strong business awareness of the commercialisation opportunities for sensors and related systems, and foster an understanding of the connections between technology, management and entrepreneurship. · Expose students to a range of sensor technology areas. · Encourage students to work across scientific and engineering discipline boundaries, with a resultant enhancement of interdisciplinary understanding. · Equip graduates with communication and outreach training, personal development skills and specific research training to enable them to become future technology leaders with strong public engagement skills. Learning Outcomes The programme has been designed around a set of core themes that provide a comprehensive foundation in sensor technologies. These include the principles of sensors and networked sensor systems, with emphasis on sensor fabrication, materials, electronics and communications. Students will also engage with data analysis and machine learning, particularly in relation to the large datasets generated by sensor systems. The curriculum explores the characterisation of uncertainty in sensor technologies across measurement, industrial applications and societal impact. In addition, students will learn concepts and strategies for device fabrication, system design and characterisation, and will gain hands-on research experience. The programme also addresses key aspects of business, innovation, technology development and entrepreneurship, particularly in the context of global challenges and Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Through these themes and a multidisciplinary approach, students will develop and demonstrate a well-rounded body of knowledge, understanding, skills and other professional competencies: