Within the Faculty at Thornton Science Park there are a number of research groups some of which have dedicated websites that you can find out more about their activities on.
Thornton Simulation and Modelling for Applied Physics and Electrical Engineering Research Group (TSMPE) – TSMPE has historical Simulation and Modelling capability in Quantum Mechanics applied to Semiconductor Physics, Applied Electromagnetism & Applied Heat and Mass Transfer. TSMPE is currently spearheading a New Nano-electronics Initiative employing density matrix techniques to calculate the switching of Quantum Dot Cellular Automata (QCA) Digital Circuits, implemented in molecular systems.
The Mathematical Sciences Research Group – The group has strong links both with mathematicians in other centres and with researchers in other departments of the university. We have co-workers from across Europe and beyond, forming an expanding network of collaborators. The Mathematics Research Seminar series, organised by the group, provides a forum for members of the group to share their work and for external speakers to present to staff and postgraduate students from the faculty. A list of recent and upcoming seminars may be found below.
Laser Engineering and Manufacturing Research Centre (LEMRC) – Laser Engineering and Manufacturing Research Centre (LEMRC) have extensive experience and expertise in laser materials processing for engineering and manufacturing research using lasers with varying wavelengths.
Smart Microsystems Research Group (SMRG) – The Smart Microsystems Research Group (SMRG) has the responsibility of the Vibration Dynamics and MEMS Lab which is the primary scientific laboratory that houses state-of-the-art scientific equipment for storage, wire-bonding, packaging, characterisation, measurement and testing of MEMS and CMOS chips; as well as having the equipment to carry out and measure advanced vibration experiments. To contact the SMRG please email Dr Yu Jia.
Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) – Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology reinvents traditionally bulky mechanical and electrical systems onto a single silicon chip, which also results in drastic improvements in their performance and cost effectiveness. Here is a vibration energy harvester, which can generate electricity by tapping into the ambient vibration; and it has the potential to be eventually integrated with other semiconductor technologies to enable a smart microchip that can perpetually replenish its own power.
Medical Graphics – The Medical Graphics research group of the University of Chester explores the synergy between computer science and medical practice. We are particularly interested in bringing together novel techniques and technologies in graphics, visualization and human-computer interaction in medical settings.
Visualization, Interaction and Graphics – The Visualization, Interaction and Graphics (VIG) research group of the University of Chester explores the development, application and evaluation of interactive technologies in various domains, such as social sciences, engineering, education, art and entertainment.
Microscopy, Microanalysis and Surface Science – We use advanced X-ray and electron beam techniques to study the properties of novel materials and devices. Our aim is to be able to understand the relationships between the micro- or nano-scale structure and chemistry of materials, and their performance in novel devices and applications. Recent work includes studies of low-dimensional materials, organic photovoltaics, biofilms, and laser-modified surfaces.
Atmospheric Chemistry & Built Environment Group – We study the chemistry and composition of the atmosphere governing both outdoor and indoor air quality (IAQ). Our new facility for studying indoor environmental quality (IEQ) in the built environment – DOMestic Systems and Technology InCubator (DOMESTIC) uses state of the art instrumentation to study indoor chemistry, developing a deeper understanding of what we can do to make our buildings healthier.
Platinum Group Compounds for the Treatment of Cancer – The main purpose of our research is the development of more efficient and selective drugs for the treatment of cancer. To achieve this aim, we use an interdisciplinary approach where computational design of new compounds is followed by their chemical synthesis and in vitro bioassays to test for biological activity and mode of action.
Computational Condensed Matter Physics – Our aim is to study nanoscale phenomena at surfaces and interfaces as well as charge and exciton transport in organic material by means of modelling from first-principles. In terms of applications our work is related to devices such as Organic Photovoltaics (OPVs) and Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs).
Materials Science Lab – Our research focuses in various topics of material science, connecting synthetic strategies with material’s characterisation. In order to explore potential applications, we study layered double hydroxides to develop non-toxic biopolymers, which contain inorganic fillers, and study their anion exchange properties in brine solutions. In addition, we analyse materials in fundamental experiments to examine their physical and chemical properties, such as sintering rock salt to study its densification process.