An introduction to the Advanced Engineering Centre from the co-directors, Professor Cyril Crua and Dr Penny Atkins
Engineering and the accompanying research environment have altered beyond recognition in the last ten years. It is profoundly important to us at the University of Brighton to ensure that the Advanced Engineering Centre remains at the forefront of research and development in an ageing, environment-aware society with growing energy and transportation demands.
At the University of Brighton, we are passionate about making a difference through our research. As well as exploring fundamental engineering research questions, we ensure that our activity focuses on research outcomes, knowledge transfer and deliverables that keep economic prosperity, environmental impact and end-user experience firmly in mind.
To do this, the Advanced Engineering Centre (AEC) works alongside industrial and academic partners to apply the expertise of its members to address some of society’s most important issues. We have active collaborations with more than 40 companies, including both long-term strategic relationships (Ricardo, Dolphin and BP), collaborative projects (for example, with Highview) and knowledge transfer partnerships. We always welcome opportunities to work with new partners.
The Advanced Engineering Centre has undergone steady growth from its beginnings in 1982, as the Heat Transfer Research Unit led by Professor Morgan Heikal, to the present Advanced Engineering Centre, with a staff of over 50 full members. In 2006, in collaboration with Ricardo, the University of Brighton opened the Sir Harry Ricardo Laboratories. Then in 2017, the new Advanced Engineering Building was built, following investment from the Wolfson Foundation. This centre now hosts 11 laboratories: three Engines Test Cells, two spray visualisation labs, two Multiphase Flow and Heat Transfer Labs, a Battery Test Cell, an Innovation Factory Lab, the Cryogenic Lab, a High-Speed Flywheel Spin Test Facility and many other facilities including a 3D printing lab.
Professor Cyril Crua
Dr Penny Atkins