Using design to boost physics projects

We’re working with the University of Liverpool to stimulate new projects at the forefront of nuclear and particle physics.

The University of Liverpool is developing several groundbreaking projects and have engaged the expert advice from our research support services to accelerate the commercialisation of their research. Our team will work with the University to identify users and markets, and attract critical investment for research and development.

What the Design Council brings is specialist knowledge of communicating and translating these ideas into the commercial world.

Dr Marco Palumbo, Physics Commercialisation Manager at The University of Liverpool

The projects selected by the University push the boundaries of nuclear science, including a robotic system which can carry a radiation detector across contaminated land, reducing the need for humans to enter high-risk zones.

Dr Marco Palumbo, Physics Commercialisation Manager at Liverpool, said: "We are keen to use design strategically to explore how pure research meets the needs of users in real-world scenarios. What the Design Council brings is specialist knowledge of communicating and translating these ideas into the commercial world."

The projects push the boundaries of nuclear science, including a robotic system which can carry a radiation detector across contaminated land, reducing the need for humans to enter high-risk zones

In total, four projects will be developed over the six-month span of the collaboration. The other projects include an alternative to the GPS system and a portable radiation detection system for use at ports. This system is designed to prevent the smuggling of nuclear materials and is an improvement on current systems as it can detect material even when it is shielded. This breakthrough technology could also allow inspectors to check nuclear reactors aren't being used to make military grade material.

Pauline Shakespeare, our Services Manager, has high hopes that the relationship will reap fantastic results: “The research they are doing will help protect lives and we’re proud to be part of making it a reality. I am delighted that this relationship developed after Dr Palumbo’s attended one of our training workshops. Now our relationship with the University of Liverpool has become a partnership.