Colin Dowding

My research enables the real-time modulation and/or analysis of light to affect or and/or detect engineering structures. This is done through the design selection of appropriate wavelengths along with geometric and temporal beam characteristics for the intended materials to deliver a defined material response and/or reduce data noise. Following this strategy delivers better targeted, and therefore simpler, modelling and/or filtering techniques yielding sufficiently accurate outputs that can be readily broadcast to and used within associated logic. This work can be used in concert with or as a substitute for computationally expensive numerical modelling techniques; applied for validation or upon a production line system to yield accurate and fast response to production variables. This will increase manufacturing quality, yield and flexibility which, in combination, will facilitate cheaper, more reliable and more diverse products which are better suited to their intended purpose, utilising more sustainable materials whilst consuming less energy.

I am passionate about inspiring the next generation of engineers and physical scientists. One of my key responsibilities at the University of East Anglia is to ensure that young people make informed choices about their professional future. I have secured funding to deliver landmark public engagement initiatives in Lincoln: instigating Go4SET in the county of Lincolnshire; delivering the first ever residential event for under 16s at the University of Lincoln; and co-founding a regional biennial festival of engineering which in 2022 will celebrate its 5^th occurrence.