Physics of measurement and materials

We have a strong history of technological innovation and have contributed to the department’s record of spring-boarding successful spinout companies.

Our research primarily targets issues with societal impacts, such as the energy or water management sectors. We welcome new collaborations in our key areas.

Development of optical sensing and imaging systems

Research in this area focuses on the development of optical sensing and imaging systems. We utilise optical sensing for a variety of measurements such as temperature, bacterial count and fruit freshness. Imaging systems primarily focus on biological samples for items like cartilage, fruit and nerves.

Microfluidics and nanofluidics

Our researchers have access to a soft lithography facility for making microfluidic chips. We use these in applications involving colloids such as cells, bioparticles, and Janus particles.

In the Dynamic Microfluidics Laboratory, we explore moving droplets, including phenomena such as superhydrophobicity and capillary uptake. We also have capabilities in nanoscale fluidics, such as using pores and pipettes to analyse nanoscale colloids and bioparticles.

The Dodd-Walls Centre for Photonics and Quantum Technologies
The MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology
Te Pūnaha Matatini
Med Tech