About the Advanced Manufacturing Research Group
The Advanced Manufacturing Research Group undertakes internationally leading research to develop next-generation manufacturing technologies that are intelligent, sustainable, and digitally enabled. The group addresses fundamental and applied challenges across the full manufacturing value chain, from materials and process development to system integration and data-driven optimisation. By combining expertise in advanced manufacturing processes, photonics, mechanics and materials, and digital manufacturing, the group delivers high-impact research that supports industrial innovation in sectors including aerospace, automotive, energy, healthcare, and high-value manufacturing.
Our research activities include:
- Hybrid and Additive Manufacturing
Development of advanced metal, ceramic and multi-material additive manufacturing processes, including hybrid manufacturing routes that combine additive, subtractive, and surface modification techniques. Research focuses on process–structure–property relationships, in-situ alloy and energy-efficient processing, and scalable industrial implementation. - Advanced Photonics
Research into laser–matter interaction, ultrafast and high-power laser processing, and photonic-based manufacturing technologies. Applications include surface texturing, precision micro- and nano-fabrication, surface functionalisation, and laser-enabled hybrid processes. - Advanced Machining
Investigation of high-performance machining processes for difficult-to-machine materials, including superalloys, advanced composites, and additively manufactured components. Topics include tool wear, surface integrity, process monitoring, and hybrid machining strategies. - Digital Manufacturing and Intelligent Systems
Development of data-driven and digitally enabled manufacturing solutions, including digital twins, process modelling, machine learning, and real-time monitoring and control. Research aims to improve productivity, quality, robustness, and sustainability across manufacturing systems. - Mechanics and Materials
Fundamental studies of deformation, damage, and failure mechanisms in manufactured materials and structures. This includes experimental and computational approaches to understand mechanical behaviour across length scales and under complex manufacturing-induced thermal and mechanical histories. - Biomedical Engineering and Manufacturing
Application of advanced manufacturing technologies to biomedical and healthcare challenges, including the design and fabrication of medical devices, implants, and bio-inspired structures. Research covers additive manufacturing of biomedical materials, patient-specific solutions, surface and structural functionalisation for improved biological performance, and manufacturing technologies for regenerative medicine and healthcare applications.