Bridging the gaps: Cam-bridge-Sens

There is a strategic vision in Cambridge to bridge sensor research activities across the University. The initiative will nurture a multidisciplinary research culture, which leads to radically new approaches to sensor research and large-scale collaborative applications.Analysis and diagnosis, the core elements of sensing, are highlighted by almost every initiative for health, environment, security and quality of life. Sensors have advanced to an extent that they are sought for many applications in manufacturing and detection segments, and their cost advantages have boosted their utility and demand. The pillars of sensor research are in highly diverse fields, often disconnected from one another at the point of foundation, so that traditional single discipline research is particularly poor at catalysing sensor innovation and application, as these typically fall in the 'discipline gaps'. On the other hand, a collaborative research effort aligning and bridging the disciplines has the potential to produce a quantum leap in our capability. This is exciting. Across Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Chemistry, Materials and Biotechnology, world-leading research is engaged on novel sensor technologies, on networking of sensors and sensor applications, and on their application. The vision sees Cambridge's expertise in atmospheric monitoring and world acclaimed prowess at the chemical and life-sciences interface in sensors, joined with EPSRC funded activities related to the development of fundamental technology for sensors, e.g. photonics technologies, MEMS devices, nano-sensors, ultrasound and MRI imaging, as well as system integration, sensor networking, signal packaging, environmental monitoring, transport and analysis. The CAM-bridge-SENS project will:1) Provide contact between researchers2) Develop a common culture and language 3) Catalyse new innovative researchThrough a range of people-based activities and research seeds we aim to find novel methods for engagement between researchers and research activities and to bridge gaps across disciplines, departments and research cultures.