Engineering, Materials and Built Environment Research (EMBER)
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Engineering, Materials and Built Environment Research (EMBER) brings together the research, innovation and knowledge exchange activity of Sheffield Hallam University’s School of Engineering and Built Environment (EBE).

Engineering, Materials and Built Environment Research (EMBER)

Engineering, Materials and Built Environment Research (EMBER, formerly MERI) brings together the research, innovation and knowledge exchange activity of Sheffield Hallam University’s School of Engineering and Built Environment (EBE).

Research for a changing world

Our research spans engineering, materials science, advanced manufacturing, energy and transport, automation and robotics, infrastructure, medical engineering and the built environment. We combine fundamental research with technological innovation and real-world application to address major industrial, environmental and societal challenges.

Who we are

Working closely with industry, government, professional bodies and academic partners in the UK and internationally, we develop new knowledge, materials, technologies, processes and engineering solutions.

Our strong links with industry and society underpin EMBER. Through collaborative research, knowledge exchange, consultancy and doctoral research, we translate academic expertise into practical solutions and impact, while bringing the latest research and industrial challenges into our teaching. 

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What we do

EMBER is a multidisciplinary research and innovation cluster that brings together expertise across seven research and development themes:

  • Glasses, Ceramics and Soft Materials
  • HIPIMS and Advanced Manufacturing
  • Infrastructure Management
  • Intelligent Medical Systems and Engineering
  • M.A.T.E.RI.A.LS – Modelling, Mechanics, Characterisation and Design of Engineering Metamaterials
  • Smart Power, Automation, Robotics and Control Systems (SPARCS)
  • Sustainable Energy, Fuels & Transportation (SEFT)
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Research excellence and impact

We are one of the UK’s leading providers of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs), helping businesses access world-class academic expertise, develop new technologies and processes, accelerate innovation, and recruit highly skilled graduates.

In REF 2021, 75% of Sheffield Hallam's Engineering (UOA 12) and 86% of its Architecture, Built Environment and Planning (UOA 13) submissions were rated world-leading (4) or internationally excellent (3), demonstrating EMBER's collaborative environment connecting research, innovation and impact, while developing the next generation of researchers and engineering professionals.

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A concrete bridge

Bridge inspection training course

Led by a highly experienced academic and industrial team, our bridge inspection training course offers a comprehensive introduction to the subject
A man and woman in hard hats and high-vis vests stand on the balcony of a building

Hands on bridge inspection training course

This practical course offers inspectors the opportunity to use concrete, steel, masonry and timber testing equipment
Lightbulb

Forensic Investigation of Lightbulbs

This short course explores opportunities and limitations of forensic failure investigation of automotive light bulbs
Two students chatting in Sheffield Hallam University's Redmires Building.

Research degrees

Browse our open opportunities and progress your materials research career. We welcome enquiries from potential research students - get in touch