The 3M BIC and the University of Huddersfield have launched a new initiative, the 3M BIC Fellowship, that will support innovative research within the University’s research centres.
The 3M BIC Fellowship has been created to allow early-stage academics at the University to advance their explorative work with cutting-edge technologies at the 3M BIC, as well as access support and training, networking opportunities and meeting spaces within the Centre.
It will help to promote relevant research in Huddersfield that will be of significance to regional industries and will encourage grant applications that include the 3M BIC as a key partner and collaborator in follow-up studies, as well as provide long-term commitment to submit joint research grant bids between the University of Huddersfield and 3M BIC.
The 3M BIC Fellowship is only open to academic research staff from the University of Huddersfield and research projects that can be linked to the 3M BIC’s facilities and expertise, which include:
- Zeiss Imaging Suite with its range of microscopy techniques,
- Scanning and metrology using optical and X-ray technologies (XCT),
- Polymer and direct metal additive manufacture, including design for AM (additive manufacture),
- Non-destructive testing and part examination
- Eye-tracking to study the human response to information and comprehension,
- and other advanced computing applications including CAD, FEA and design optimisation using algorithmic analyses.
Successful applicants will be able to access support for up to two years, including high performance computing (HPC) and a contribution to materials and external training costs.
The first cohort was identified earlier this year with three Fellows taking part in the initiative from the Music, Chemistry and Engineering departments at the University of Huddersfield. Their projects include the following:
- Focusing on the holistic geometrical verification of additive manufacture (AM) components (including surface texture, dimensional accuracy as well as internal defects), with an aim of linking AM process optimisation and AM product performance assessment.
- Providing a service to water utilities for them to determine which of their tap waters release the most lead from lead water pipes.
- Exploring various methods for repairing damaged wax cylinders, so that they may be played and preserved. The results of the project will be used for further research studies and will preserve invaluable sound heritage.
A further cohort of Fellows will be appointed later this summer, with a call for applications currently open to research staff at the University of Huddersfield.
