Images of Research 2013/14

Fieldwork in the Utah desert Researchers walking in the roasting heat of the desert, as seen by a camera hanging from a balloon. These photos aid geological research, dealing with deep underground engineering challenges, in for example, oil production and radioactive waste disposal. Š Yannick Kremer, 2013

Cold consultation in Camlachie Glasgow’s east end. January. Cold. A little girl and her mum have come out to see what on earth is going on. Regeneration of Glasgow’s most deprived communities and environments require a holistic approach to be successful. Not only a technical planning and engineering solution, but buy-in from those who will be affected by the transformation. © Peter Phillips, 2013

Antibiotics from the beehive A bee collecting nectar and pollen from a flower.

Bees can generate a gluelike substance which they use to fix their hive and keep it clean by stopping bacteria growing. Scientists studying this glue could one day develop a new antibiotic to treat some of our most dangerous hospital - acquired infections such as MRSA. Š Muhammad Nadeem Kardar, 2013 Image Š Sonia Angele, 2013

Understanding human responses to disease epidemics

Are these people at the bus stop in danger of contracting swine flu? Infectious disease epidemics represent a serious health risk globally. Attempts to control the spread of disease rely on the public’s knowledge of symptoms and preventative measures.

Research suggests there is a lack of public knowledge which has implications for future health campaigns. © Susan Rassmussen, 2013 Image © Douglas Cunningham, 2013

Head of Water Flea A simple microscope shows the intricate features of the head of a water flea. In collaboration with a local company, researchers are providing these simple, low cost microscopes to schools and giving children the chance to look into the magical world of microscopy. Š Rumelo Amor, 2013

Single stage to the future The ability to fly at hypersonic speed through the earth’s atmosphere promises to revolutionise the way we travel, communicate and explore the universe around us. These amazing advances will soon be in our reach with recent developments in hypersonic aerospace research. Š Nathan Donaldson, 2013

An evolution of lighting for the developing world An imported LED lantern used by a farmer and his family of eleven in rural Zambia. Ultra-affordable electronics require a substantial initial outlay, but offer long-term financial and health benefits over traditional kerosene lanterns. Š Peter Dauenhauer, 2013

Pushing boundaries on a small scale

Lego firefighters oversee Lego building work in a laser construction site. Big changes start on a small scale. We are working towards a new generation of lasers: powerful, compact and highly functional. Novel laser-gain materials, like diamond, can take us there if we learn to harness them. Š Elisabeth Fraczek, 2013

The regulation of international trade in genetically modified organisms A market stall with an abundance of exotic fresh fruit and vegetables. Researchers are analysing the differences in international treaties that govern the trade of genetically modified organisms, asking how conflicting documents could affect trade. Š Jingjing Zhao, 2013

Hazardous recycling Ships docked in a breakers yard waiting to be dismantled and recycled. Popular locations are typically in countries that have inadequate understanding of health, environmental and safety requirements. Researchers are developing vocational education to assist workers at these sites. Š Stuart McKenna, 2013

For pastures green A scene from the Kenyan countryside of a migrating herd in peril. Researchers are studying the sociocultural experiences of Kenyan migrant workers in the UK. Migrants - the brightest and best in the pursuit of a better lifestyle face daily challenges and hostility in their new environment. Š Ann Ndiuni, 2013

Psychology at sea The Captain of a ship carrying two million barrels of crude oil in one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world. He’s fatigued. His concentration wavers and the ship approaches a sandbank. Will he alter his course?

Human error accounts for the majority of shipping collisions. Using our technology and expertise we can optimise ship design and directly enhance crew performance. © Stephen Butler, 2013 Image © Douglas Cunningham, 2013

The price of safety in the compressor industry Centrifugal compressors are widely used in industry to generate high pressure gases. However, they are prone to a phenomenon called surge, which can cause critical damage. Current prevention mechanisms limit their efficiency and increase operating cost. By understanding what causes surge, researchers can develop anti-surge systems that are both cheaper and safer. Š Grzegorz Liskiewicz, 2013

Schizophreniaembrace not ignore!

A handmade model of the brain containing defective neuronal connections - a visual representation of the cause of mental illnesses such as schizophrenia. This psychiatric condition is not a burden on society, but rather part of it. Diagnosis is often difficult before some of the more severe symptoms develop; research into earlier diagnosis would help those who are at high risk of the disease. Š Sibani Mohanty, 2013