Physical Electronics & Instrumentation
The group's research spans from the most fundamental aspects of the physics of modern electronics to medical and industrial applications of non-invasive electromagnetic sensors.
Research is at the forefront of quantum behaviour in superconducting and semiconducting
circuits, including the use of superconducting weak link rings (SQUIDS) which are relevant
to recent developments in quantum optics and single atoms or ions in traps. Self Evolving Computer Hardware and Software
Electronic Design Automation (EDA) is highly advanced, and the Industry has developed
around what EDA tools can do. Artificial evolution can explore areas normally neglected,
utilising the physics of the medium without the usual constraints, potentially leading to
'building blocks' for future nano-circuits, where complex physics must be employed, not
avoided. AI is also applied to software structure including automatic program synthesis
and re-engineering. Theoretical Computer Science
The broad aims of the group are to explore the foundations of computer science and in parallel, programming languages and software technologies. The mathematical semantics
of programming languages are also investigated; as well as game semantics of programs
that manipulate state, and mechanisms for controlling interference between programs.
Human Centred Computing
User-centred design factors relate to a wide range of computing scenarios; of particular interest is the role of computing in complex 'agent negotiated purchases' (such as tourism, property, pensions etc). Aspects of the work include distributed cognition and computer supported collaborative working. Work also includes educational research, including multimedia and virtual reality learning environments. |