Investigations in Gravitational Radiation

Lead Research Organisation: University of the West of Scotland
Department Name: School of Engineering

Abstract

Einstein's General Theory of Relativity (GR) predicts that dynamical systems in strong gravitational fields will release vast amounts of energy in the form of gravitational radiation. Gravitational waves are ripples in the fabric of spacetime and travel from their sources at the speed of light, carrying information about physical processes responsible for their emission, obtainable in no other way. They are among the most elusive signals from the deepest reaches in the Universe. Experiments aimed at detecting them have been in development for several decades, and are now reaching sensitivity levels where detection is expected within a few years.

The worldwide network of interferometric detectors includes the German-UK GEO600, the French-Italian Virgo, the American Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) and is being enhanced with a new detector under construction - KAGRA in Japan. The former detectors have all reached sensitivities close to their design goals and have taken the most sensitive data to date. Cooperation amongst different projects enables continuous data acquisition, with sensitivity to a wide range of sources and phenomena, over most of the sky.

Data from GEO, LIGO and Virgo, have already increased our understanding of astronomical phenomena. Search for gravitational waves at the times of 154 gamma-ray bursts has allowed the best ever exclusion distances and provided evidence for extra-Galactic sources of soft-gamma repeaters. The distance reach for binary black holes in the most recent runs is 300 Mpc and the rate upper limits are now very close to that expected in some of the astrophysical models. The search for gravitational waves from the Vela pulsar has set an upper bound on the strength of radiation that is significantly below that expected from the observed spin down rate of the pulsar, corresponding to a limit on the star's ellipticity of a part in a thousand.

While recent and current observations may produce detections, there can be no guarantees. However, there is great confidence that the advanced detectors currently in construction will routinely observe gravitational waves. The advanced LIGO detectors are based on the quasi-monolithic silica suspension concept developed in the UK for GEO 600 and on the high power lasers developed by our German colleagues in GEO 600. The Advanced Virgo detector also uses a variant of the silica suspension technology. The Cardiff and Glasgow groups have initiated and led searches for astronomical sources, thanks to the algorithmic and analysis effort that has been supported since the first data taking runs began eight years ago.

We propose a programme that leads to full exploitation of data from Advanced LIGO (aLIGO), building on both continuing operation of GEO600 and analysis of data taken in the most recent LIGO/Virgo science runs. In particular we will model binary black hole mergers and carry out
deep searches for
* coalescing binary neutron stars, neutron star-black hole binaries, and black hole binaries
* bursts of gravitational waves that may originate from supernovae,
* continuous signals from pulsars and other rotating neutron stars,
* gravitational waves detected by cross-correlation methods, including a cosmological background.

In parallel, we propose detector research and development. Detector sensitivity is mainly limited by thermal noise associated with the substrates of the mirrors, their reflective coatings, and their suspension elements, as well as by noise resulting from the quantum nature of the light used in sensing. Our research is targeted towards making innovative improvements in these areas. We have major responsibilities for the silica suspensions in aLIGO, and in the development of enhancements and upgrades to the aLIGO detectors, in the areas of mirror coatings for low thermal noise, silicon substrates, cryogenic suspensions and improved interferometer topologies to combat quantum noise.

Planned Impact

There are numerous beneficiaries from our proposed research in gravitational waves, including industry, other academic disciplines, schools, science centres, museums and the general public. Materials, techniques and computational software created during the design and manufacture of gravitational wave detectors and the analysis of their data, have found numerous uses and applications in industry and other fields of academic research. E.g. the Triana software package that we developed has been used on many industrial and interdisciplinary collaborative projects to date, including: BDWorld (UK); GridLab, CoreGRID and Provenance (EU); GriPhyN and Pegasus (USA). Further, our studies of mirror coating thermal noise have played a key role in the Stanford-Scotland Photonics Innovation Collaboration, designed to capitalise on leading research in the photonics sector.

Our novel oxide bonding technology is the subject of contract research studies with optics companies in the UK and Germany, and a KTP is funded in the UK to transfer the technology in detail to a UK company specialising in the construction of optical components. We are also implementing our planned extensive knowledge exchange activities ranging from optics and engineering to a study of cell behaviour and response to nano-mechanical stimulation, an area of importance for wound healing. The technology for the thin, strong fused silica fibres supporting the 40kg aLIGO mirrors masses has led to partnerships with industry on novel all-silica gravimeters for the oil industry. To achieve our goals we are working closely with local Research & Enterprise and Business Development staff at Glasgow University, and the broader SUPA KT team, in establishing and maintaining collaborations with current and possible future beneficiaries and in the setting up and management of non-disclosure agreements and applications for patents. Thus we will ensure that future knowledge exchange opportunities are identified early and exploited fully.

Outreach to schools, science centres, museums and the general public is very strong in the field of Gravitational Wave research, driven by interest in viewing the Universe through the medium of gravity - probing black holes, the warping of space-time and the big bang itself. We have successfully engaged the wider community through numerous efforts. For example we presented the exhibit "Can you hear Black Holes" at the 2008 Royal Society Summer exhibition with related exhibits still on show in the Science Museum in London, following which we undertook a key role in the design and construction of the NSF-funded US exhibit "Astronomy's New Messengers" which featured at the World Science Festivals in 2009 and 2010 and then as a touring exhibit. With funding from STFC we developed "Gravity Beyond the Apple", an interactive secondary school science show delivered in conjunction with the award-winning "Science Made Simple" public outreach company based in Cardiff University. We also made a key contribution to the "100 Hours of Astronomy" IYA2009 cornerstone project, which featured live webcasts from all the ground-based gravitational wave observatories, and more recently have been very active in Star-Gazing Live.

In the future we will maintain and extend our programme of public engagement, through our existing network of relationships with key outreach stakeholders, which includes: science centres and museums, national education authorities, the amateur astronomical community, the media and professional science communicators - particularly Wendy Sadler, director of "Science Made Simple" and the science team at the Glasgow Science Centre. Among our specific plans we will deliver across the UK numerous interactive lectures to schools, astronomical societies and the general public, in the areas of gravitational wave detection, cosmology and multi-messenger astronomy, drawing upon the suite of themed lectures which we have already developed.

Publications

10 25 50
 
Description Our findings include: (a) studies on the mechanical loss and the internal stress of magnetron sputtered coatings of silica, tantala and niobia, (b) demonstration of the use of diamond-like carbon (DLC) for use in future suspension components, (c) continued spin-off of core STFC research activities into the areas of (i) stem cell research and development of techniques ('nanokicking') for supplying specialised cells for use in regenerative medicine, (ii) development of optical interference filter technology for improving the discrimination in NDIR gas sensors for monitoring exhaled CO2 in patients under anesthesia (capnography), (iii) development of DLC coatings for use as an anti-corrosion and anti-biofouling technology for use in the marine and oil & gas industries, and (iv) development of protective DLC coatings for use in rapid prototyping of injection moulded plastic components.
Exploitation Route We completed the studies on the mechanical loss and the internal stress of magnetron sputtered coatings of silica, tantala and niobia, (b) demonstration of the use of diamond-like carbon (DLC) for use in future suspension components, (c) continued spin-off of core STFC research activities into the areas of (i) stem cell research and development of techniques ('nanokicking') for supplying specialised cells for use in regenerative medicine, (ii) development of optical interference filter technology for improving the discrimination in NDIR gas sensors for monitoring exhaled CO2 in patients under anesthesia (capnography), (iii) development of DLC coatings for use as an anti-corrosion and anti-biofouling technology for use in the marine and oil & gas industries, and (iv) development of protective DLC coatings for use in rapid prototyping of injection moulded plastic components.
Sectors Aerospace

Defence and Marine

Energy

Environment

Healthcare

Manufacturing

including Industrial Biotechology

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology

 
Description (1) aspects of precision measurement and interferometry continue to be spun-out into the biomedical field. Prof. Matthew Dalby (Glasgow) and Prof. Stuart Reid (UWS) are pursuing funding routes for patenting the technology and extending to 3D bone growth from mesenchymal stem cells. The first in man study of this bone graft technology is planned within the next 3 years, funded by UK Charity, Find A Better Way. (2) optical filter technology continues to be spun-out into the area of capnography, which is the monitoring of exhaled gas from patients under anaesthesia. This work is being commercialised by UWS and Gas Sensing Solution Ltd. (3) DLC (diamond-like carbon) coatings, which have been developed by Dr Ross Birney and Prof Stuart Reid (formally UWS, now Strathclyde) are being transferred to Torishima Solutions Europe, a UK-based company with links to anti-corrosion applications e.g. oil and gas, marine. Funding has been sought from STFC to support this knowledge transfer.
Sector Aerospace, Defence and Marine,Energy,Environment,Healthcare,Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology
Impact Types Societal

Economic

 
Description Royal Society Industry Fellowship / Society of Chemical Industry studentship
Amount £159,000 (GBP)
Funding ID P46ICHA/02 
Organisation The Royal Society 
Sector Charity/Non Profit
Country United Kingdom
Start 09/2013 
End 09/2017
 
Description SUPA Industrial Placement
Amount £35,318 (GBP)
Organisation The Scottish Universities Physics Alliance (SUPA) 
Sector Academic/University
Country United Kingdom
Start 04/2014 
End 05/2015
 
Description ALUK 
Organisation University of Glasgow
Department UK Advanced LIGO Project (ALUK)
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution The UK Advanced LIGO Project (ALUK) involves transfer of the multiple stage / monolithic silica suspension technology developed for the GEO 600 detector to the LIGO detectors based in the U.S. Along with transfer of enhanced interferometric techniques this will create Advanced LIGO (aLIGO). We have provided all the main suspension systems for the three Advanced LIGO gravitational wave detectors. These complex mechanical systems suspend the core optical components, i.e. mirrors and beam-splitters, which form the interferometer at the heart of each detector. In particular we developed and then provided the ultra-low-dissipation, fused silica suspension technology that enables Advanced LIGO to have excellent sensitivity at low frequencies, plus all the associated production and characterisation equipment necessary to manufacture, install and maintain the suspensions. We provide continuing support for the assembly, characterisation, commissioning and operation of the suspensions and related detector technology.
Collaborator Contribution Membership of the ALUK enabled the associated project to be completed. Intellectual input, and design, procurement and manufacturing effort was shared among the partners. A memorandum of understanding signed by LIGO provides for access to gravitational wave data from aLIGO. The aims of the ALUK collaboration are to design and build detector components, and to assist with their installation and commissioning, and with the operation of the resulting aLIGO detectors. Collaborators provided design input to many subsystems of the project, expertise in procurement and manufacturing of precision electronic and mechanical components, and also project management.
Impact Philip Leverhulme Prize RCUK Fellowship Post-doctoral Fellowship EC Framework 7 Infrastructures program International Joint Project Award scheme Travel grant RCUK Science Bridges RCUK Science Bridges Seedcorn grant Research Merit Award JISC Grant SUPA Studentship Science in Society Fellowship RSE/Scottish Executive Personal Research Fellowship MP FS AH MB SR Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition 2008 Appearance on Radio 4 programme "In our time" Appearance on BBC One Countryfile Regular visits to local schools Public lectures at Science Centres and Science Festivals Events for International Year of Astronomy 2009 Lectures to amateur astronomical societies Meet the Scientist @ Glasgow Science Centre Science @ the Scottish Parliament Astronomy's New Messengers Icarus at the Edge of Time CPD Training for schoolteachers ScienceFace Scottish Science Advisory Council Technology Development Hydroxy-catalysis bonding for technology applications Hydroxy-catalysis bonding for research Fused silica suspension fibres for application in technology Fused silica suspension fibres for gravitational wave detectors Bayesian Techniques in precision optical sensing Bayesian Techniques in gravitational wave data analysis Amplitude or arbitrary phase sideband optical cavity probes Technology Development Diffractively coupled high finesse optical cavities Silicon Carbide bonding Berlin 2009 GWADW 2009 Amaldi 2009 RAS NAM 2009 GWADW 2009 RAS NAM 2008 Texas 2008 Moscow 2008 Schuster Colloquium Elizabeth Spreadbury Lecture RSE Gunning Victoria Jubilee Prize Lectureship Wolfson Research Merit Award Tannahill Lecture and Medal Fellow ISGRGI FRSE (1) FInstP (1) FRAS (1) FRSE (2) Max-Planck-Society FRAS (2) History and Development of Knowledge IOP Nuclear and Particle Physics Divisional Conference Advanced Detector Workshop Kyoto LISA Symposium Stanford Optical Fibre Sensors Edinburgh Advanced Detector Workshop Florida Gravitational Wave Bursts meeting Mexico ILIAS Dresden IoP NPPD conference Glasgow 12th Marcel Grossman meeting Paris Lomonosov conference Moscow Advanced Detector Workshop Florida GR19 Meeting Mexico LISA International Symposium Stanford OECD Global Science Forum India IAU Rio de Janeiro Amaldi NY Fujihara Seminar Tokyo OECD Global Science Forum Cracow NEB X111 Thessaloniki New Worlds Portugal PASCOS 07 London LEOS Montreal XX1X Spanish Relativity Meeting Mallorca Rencontres de Moriond Italy Texas Symposium Heidelberg Aspera Workshop Paris IoP HEPP and AP Annual Meeting Frontiers in Optics, OSA, San Jose Amaldi NY Fujiwara Foundation Seminar Japan Advanced Detector Workshop Florida IoP Astroparticle meeting Oxford Cosmo 07 Sussex Aspera Workshop Paris Workshop on Charging Issues MIT IoP NPPD Annual conference Surrey RAS ordinary meeting London ILIAS Italy IAU General Assembly Prague NPPD Conference Glasgow Statistical Challenges Penn State Amaldi student talk Visiting Professorship Jena STFC Particle Astrophysics Advisory panel Physical and Engineering Committee of ESF SSAC Chair GWIC Chair STFC Panels Royal Society Research Grants Panel Aspera/ApPEC Science Advisory Committee Trustee RSE RSE Fellowship Committee IoP Awards Committee Chair LIGO Election & Membership GWIC Deputy Chair PPAN RSE Grants Committee RSE Sectional Committee Stanford-Scotland Photonics GEO Executive Committee FP7 ET Design Study Member STFC Science Committee PPAN GWIC Roadmap committee STFC Oversight Committee Zeplin III Aspera/ApPEC Peer Review Committee Governing Council FP6 ILIAS Aspera/ApPEC Roadmap Committee Advanced Detector committee LSC Publication Policy committee LSC LSC CW Group co-Chair reelected SUPA Astro theme leader LSC CW Group co-chair LSC Detection Committee LSC Data Analysis Council FRSE Aspen Center for Physics 2008 Aspen Center for Physics 2011 Advanced Detectors Workshop Kyoto Cosmic Co-Motion Queensland SAMSI North Carolina Center for Astrostatistics Penn State RAS NAM Llandudno Cosmology and Machine Learning UCL ILIAS Dresden PF PhD FB PhD KC Ugrad LO Ugrad RD Ugrad LM Ugrad LMac Ugrad AB Ugrad EWB Ugrad DF PhD ST Staff BL Staff HW PhD KB RA SF Staff KS staff LSF staff ZP Ugrad DH PhD RU Ugrad NH Ugrad MC Ugrad SL Ugrad NG Ugrad CS PhD OB PhD OB PhD MB PhD EJ Ugrad RM Ugrad RW Ugrad SJ Ugrad SL Ugrad BL Staff BG Ugrad AP PhD PS staff VM staff LG Staff CC PhD SZ Ugrad NM PhD MJ staff AG PhD FGC PhD
 
Description CCR - Centre for Coating Research (Moores Foundation funded, led by Stanford University) 
Organisation Stanford University
Country United States 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution Prof Stuart Reid is the international advisor on this project.
Collaborator Contribution Through the LIGO Scientific Collaboration structure, this collaboration acts as a two-way platform for driving technological developments required for the laser mirror coatings in future gravitational wave detectors.
Impact Joint papers.
Start Year 2017
 
Description ELITES collaboration 
Organisation Friedrich Schiller University Jena (FSU)
Country Germany 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We have contributed designs and expertise in low loss optics and materials at cryogenic temperatures. Several visits of PDRAs and students to Japan have taken place for characterising silica tantala coatings on sapphire discs as well as sapphire fibres used for suspension systems.
Collaborator Contribution This collaboration has two main goals: 1) Exchange of knowledge between the European labs designing the cryogenic apparatuses, plants and detector components for the Einstein Telescope (ET) and the corresponding labs in Japan, engaged in the Kagra project; 2) Train early stage researchers, both on the European and the Japanese side, in this specific field, developing a new generation of young scientists that will have an important role in the realization and handling of both Kagra and ET. Kagra will be the first large-scale gravitational wave detector using cryogenic optics. This collaboration allows us to contribute to this exciting endeavour, while at the same time obtaining practical experience with cryogenic systems similar to what will be required for future European interferometers such as ET.
Impact ELiTES-ET-LCGT Telescopes: Exchange of Scientists award granted from the EU - research activities ongoing (first annual meeting held, exchanges underway)
Start Year 2012
 
Description ELITES collaboration 
Organisation Max Planck Society
Department Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics
Country Germany 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We have contributed designs and expertise in low loss optics and materials at cryogenic temperatures. Several visits of PDRAs and students to Japan have taken place for characterising silica tantala coatings on sapphire discs as well as sapphire fibres used for suspension systems.
Collaborator Contribution This collaboration has two main goals: 1) Exchange of knowledge between the European labs designing the cryogenic apparatuses, plants and detector components for the Einstein Telescope (ET) and the corresponding labs in Japan, engaged in the Kagra project; 2) Train early stage researchers, both on the European and the Japanese side, in this specific field, developing a new generation of young scientists that will have an important role in the realization and handling of both Kagra and ET. Kagra will be the first large-scale gravitational wave detector using cryogenic optics. This collaboration allows us to contribute to this exciting endeavour, while at the same time obtaining practical experience with cryogenic systems similar to what will be required for future European interferometers such as ET.
Impact ELiTES-ET-LCGT Telescopes: Exchange of Scientists award granted from the EU - research activities ongoing (first annual meeting held, exchanges underway)
Start Year 2012
 
Description ELITES collaboration 
Organisation Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO)
Department Foundation for Fundamental Research on Matter
Country Netherlands 
Sector Public 
PI Contribution We have contributed designs and expertise in low loss optics and materials at cryogenic temperatures. Several visits of PDRAs and students to Japan have taken place for characterising silica tantala coatings on sapphire discs as well as sapphire fibres used for suspension systems.
Collaborator Contribution This collaboration has two main goals: 1) Exchange of knowledge between the European labs designing the cryogenic apparatuses, plants and detector components for the Einstein Telescope (ET) and the corresponding labs in Japan, engaged in the Kagra project; 2) Train early stage researchers, both on the European and the Japanese side, in this specific field, developing a new generation of young scientists that will have an important role in the realization and handling of both Kagra and ET. Kagra will be the first large-scale gravitational wave detector using cryogenic optics. This collaboration allows us to contribute to this exciting endeavour, while at the same time obtaining practical experience with cryogenic systems similar to what will be required for future European interferometers such as ET.
Impact ELiTES-ET-LCGT Telescopes: Exchange of Scientists award granted from the EU - research activities ongoing (first annual meeting held, exchanges underway)
Start Year 2012
 
Description ELITES collaboration 
Organisation Sapienza University of Rome
Country Italy 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We have contributed designs and expertise in low loss optics and materials at cryogenic temperatures. Several visits of PDRAs and students to Japan have taken place for characterising silica tantala coatings on sapphire discs as well as sapphire fibres used for suspension systems.
Collaborator Contribution This collaboration has two main goals: 1) Exchange of knowledge between the European labs designing the cryogenic apparatuses, plants and detector components for the Einstein Telescope (ET) and the corresponding labs in Japan, engaged in the Kagra project; 2) Train early stage researchers, both on the European and the Japanese side, in this specific field, developing a new generation of young scientists that will have an important role in the realization and handling of both Kagra and ET. Kagra will be the first large-scale gravitational wave detector using cryogenic optics. This collaboration allows us to contribute to this exciting endeavour, while at the same time obtaining practical experience with cryogenic systems similar to what will be required for future European interferometers such as ET.
Impact ELiTES-ET-LCGT Telescopes: Exchange of Scientists award granted from the EU - research activities ongoing (first annual meeting held, exchanges underway)
Start Year 2012
 
Description ELITES collaboration 
Organisation Tokyo University of Science
Department Institute for Cosmic Rays Research
Country Japan 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We have contributed designs and expertise in low loss optics and materials at cryogenic temperatures. Several visits of PDRAs and students to Japan have taken place for characterising silica tantala coatings on sapphire discs as well as sapphire fibres used for suspension systems.
Collaborator Contribution This collaboration has two main goals: 1) Exchange of knowledge between the European labs designing the cryogenic apparatuses, plants and detector components for the Einstein Telescope (ET) and the corresponding labs in Japan, engaged in the Kagra project; 2) Train early stage researchers, both on the European and the Japanese side, in this specific field, developing a new generation of young scientists that will have an important role in the realization and handling of both Kagra and ET. Kagra will be the first large-scale gravitational wave detector using cryogenic optics. This collaboration allows us to contribute to this exciting endeavour, while at the same time obtaining practical experience with cryogenic systems similar to what will be required for future European interferometers such as ET.
Impact ELiTES-ET-LCGT Telescopes: Exchange of Scientists award granted from the EU - research activities ongoing (first annual meeting held, exchanges underway)
Start Year 2012
 
Description ELITES collaboration 
Organisation University of Sannio
Country Italy 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We have contributed designs and expertise in low loss optics and materials at cryogenic temperatures. Several visits of PDRAs and students to Japan have taken place for characterising silica tantala coatings on sapphire discs as well as sapphire fibres used for suspension systems.
Collaborator Contribution This collaboration has two main goals: 1) Exchange of knowledge between the European labs designing the cryogenic apparatuses, plants and detector components for the Einstein Telescope (ET) and the corresponding labs in Japan, engaged in the Kagra project; 2) Train early stage researchers, both on the European and the Japanese side, in this specific field, developing a new generation of young scientists that will have an important role in the realization and handling of both Kagra and ET. Kagra will be the first large-scale gravitational wave detector using cryogenic optics. This collaboration allows us to contribute to this exciting endeavour, while at the same time obtaining practical experience with cryogenic systems similar to what will be required for future European interferometers such as ET.
Impact ELiTES-ET-LCGT Telescopes: Exchange of Scientists award granted from the EU - research activities ongoing (first annual meeting held, exchanges underway)
Start Year 2012
 
Description ELITES collaboration 
Organisation University of the West of Scotland
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We have contributed designs and expertise in low loss optics and materials at cryogenic temperatures. Several visits of PDRAs and students to Japan have taken place for characterising silica tantala coatings on sapphire discs as well as sapphire fibres used for suspension systems.
Collaborator Contribution This collaboration has two main goals: 1) Exchange of knowledge between the European labs designing the cryogenic apparatuses, plants and detector components for the Einstein Telescope (ET) and the corresponding labs in Japan, engaged in the Kagra project; 2) Train early stage researchers, both on the European and the Japanese side, in this specific field, developing a new generation of young scientists that will have an important role in the realization and handling of both Kagra and ET. Kagra will be the first large-scale gravitational wave detector using cryogenic optics. This collaboration allows us to contribute to this exciting endeavour, while at the same time obtaining practical experience with cryogenic systems similar to what will be required for future European interferometers such as ET.
Impact ELiTES-ET-LCGT Telescopes: Exchange of Scientists award granted from the EU - research activities ongoing (first annual meeting held, exchanges underway)
Start Year 2012
 
Description ELITES collaboration 
Organisation Virgo Ego Scientific Forum
Country Global 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We have contributed designs and expertise in low loss optics and materials at cryogenic temperatures. Several visits of PDRAs and students to Japan have taken place for characterising silica tantala coatings on sapphire discs as well as sapphire fibres used for suspension systems.
Collaborator Contribution This collaboration has two main goals: 1) Exchange of knowledge between the European labs designing the cryogenic apparatuses, plants and detector components for the Einstein Telescope (ET) and the corresponding labs in Japan, engaged in the Kagra project; 2) Train early stage researchers, both on the European and the Japanese side, in this specific field, developing a new generation of young scientists that will have an important role in the realization and handling of both Kagra and ET. Kagra will be the first large-scale gravitational wave detector using cryogenic optics. This collaboration allows us to contribute to this exciting endeavour, while at the same time obtaining practical experience with cryogenic systems similar to what will be required for future European interferometers such as ET.
Impact ELiTES-ET-LCGT Telescopes: Exchange of Scientists award granted from the EU - research activities ongoing (first annual meeting held, exchanges underway)
Start Year 2012
 
Description ET-R&D collaboration 
Organisation Cardiff University
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We are contributing experimental and modelling expertise to three of the working groups (WG) in this project. In WG1 we will develop methods of parameter estimation for transient signals detected by ET, through application of our existing expertise in gravitational wave data analysis. In WG3 we will develop apparatus for measuring the birefringence of coated silicon samples and apply our expertise in finite element modelling to assist in the interpretation of cryogenic birefringence measurements carried out in collaboration with Hannover and Jena. In WG4 we will carry out studies and simulations of sensing and control issues for ET and carry out detailed modelling of the quantum noise and optical configuration.
Collaborator Contribution The aim of this project is to carry out essential collaborative research and development on key out-standing topics of the technical design of the Einstein Telescope, a 3rd generation underground gravitational wave detector. The three working groups we are participating in aim to study the scientific potential of ET, investigate key optical properties of silicon mirrors and study the advanced interferometer control systems required for ET. Each of these areas requires close collaboration with our European partners and the combination of the facilities and expertise of the participating groups. This will be facilitated by regular teleconferences, meetings and research visits between us and our partners, ensuring effective management of the joint projects and regular exchange of idea and results. Participation in this project provides opportunities for us to continue to contribute strongly to the technical development of ET and ensures that we continue to be an integral part of future developments in the field of gravitational wave detection in Europe.
Impact TBC - activity started last month
Start Year 2013
 
Description ET-R&D collaboration 
Organisation Friedrich Schiller University Jena (FSU)
Country Germany 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We are contributing experimental and modelling expertise to three of the working groups (WG) in this project. In WG1 we will develop methods of parameter estimation for transient signals detected by ET, through application of our existing expertise in gravitational wave data analysis. In WG3 we will develop apparatus for measuring the birefringence of coated silicon samples and apply our expertise in finite element modelling to assist in the interpretation of cryogenic birefringence measurements carried out in collaboration with Hannover and Jena. In WG4 we will carry out studies and simulations of sensing and control issues for ET and carry out detailed modelling of the quantum noise and optical configuration.
Collaborator Contribution The aim of this project is to carry out essential collaborative research and development on key out-standing topics of the technical design of the Einstein Telescope, a 3rd generation underground gravitational wave detector. The three working groups we are participating in aim to study the scientific potential of ET, investigate key optical properties of silicon mirrors and study the advanced interferometer control systems required for ET. Each of these areas requires close collaboration with our European partners and the combination of the facilities and expertise of the participating groups. This will be facilitated by regular teleconferences, meetings and research visits between us and our partners, ensuring effective management of the joint projects and regular exchange of idea and results. Participation in this project provides opportunities for us to continue to contribute strongly to the technical development of ET and ensures that we continue to be an integral part of future developments in the field of gravitational wave detection in Europe.
Impact TBC - activity started last month
Start Year 2013
 
Description ET-R&D collaboration 
Organisation Max Planck Society
Department Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics
Country Germany 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We are contributing experimental and modelling expertise to three of the working groups (WG) in this project. In WG1 we will develop methods of parameter estimation for transient signals detected by ET, through application of our existing expertise in gravitational wave data analysis. In WG3 we will develop apparatus for measuring the birefringence of coated silicon samples and apply our expertise in finite element modelling to assist in the interpretation of cryogenic birefringence measurements carried out in collaboration with Hannover and Jena. In WG4 we will carry out studies and simulations of sensing and control issues for ET and carry out detailed modelling of the quantum noise and optical configuration.
Collaborator Contribution The aim of this project is to carry out essential collaborative research and development on key out-standing topics of the technical design of the Einstein Telescope, a 3rd generation underground gravitational wave detector. The three working groups we are participating in aim to study the scientific potential of ET, investigate key optical properties of silicon mirrors and study the advanced interferometer control systems required for ET. Each of these areas requires close collaboration with our European partners and the combination of the facilities and expertise of the participating groups. This will be facilitated by regular teleconferences, meetings and research visits between us and our partners, ensuring effective management of the joint projects and regular exchange of idea and results. Participation in this project provides opportunities for us to continue to contribute strongly to the technical development of ET and ensures that we continue to be an integral part of future developments in the field of gravitational wave detection in Europe.
Impact TBC - activity started last month
Start Year 2013
 
Description ET-R&D collaboration 
Organisation National Institute for Subatomic Physics Nikhef
Country Netherlands 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We are contributing experimental and modelling expertise to three of the working groups (WG) in this project. In WG1 we will develop methods of parameter estimation for transient signals detected by ET, through application of our existing expertise in gravitational wave data analysis. In WG3 we will develop apparatus for measuring the birefringence of coated silicon samples and apply our expertise in finite element modelling to assist in the interpretation of cryogenic birefringence measurements carried out in collaboration with Hannover and Jena. In WG4 we will carry out studies and simulations of sensing and control issues for ET and carry out detailed modelling of the quantum noise and optical configuration.
Collaborator Contribution The aim of this project is to carry out essential collaborative research and development on key out-standing topics of the technical design of the Einstein Telescope, a 3rd generation underground gravitational wave detector. The three working groups we are participating in aim to study the scientific potential of ET, investigate key optical properties of silicon mirrors and study the advanced interferometer control systems required for ET. Each of these areas requires close collaboration with our European partners and the combination of the facilities and expertise of the participating groups. This will be facilitated by regular teleconferences, meetings and research visits between us and our partners, ensuring effective management of the joint projects and regular exchange of idea and results. Participation in this project provides opportunities for us to continue to contribute strongly to the technical development of ET and ensures that we continue to be an integral part of future developments in the field of gravitational wave detection in Europe.
Impact TBC - activity started last month
Start Year 2013
 
Description ET-R&D collaboration 
Organisation Russian ET Consortium
Country Russian Federation 
Sector Public 
PI Contribution We are contributing experimental and modelling expertise to three of the working groups (WG) in this project. In WG1 we will develop methods of parameter estimation for transient signals detected by ET, through application of our existing expertise in gravitational wave data analysis. In WG3 we will develop apparatus for measuring the birefringence of coated silicon samples and apply our expertise in finite element modelling to assist in the interpretation of cryogenic birefringence measurements carried out in collaboration with Hannover and Jena. In WG4 we will carry out studies and simulations of sensing and control issues for ET and carry out detailed modelling of the quantum noise and optical configuration.
Collaborator Contribution The aim of this project is to carry out essential collaborative research and development on key out-standing topics of the technical design of the Einstein Telescope, a 3rd generation underground gravitational wave detector. The three working groups we are participating in aim to study the scientific potential of ET, investigate key optical properties of silicon mirrors and study the advanced interferometer control systems required for ET. Each of these areas requires close collaboration with our European partners and the combination of the facilities and expertise of the participating groups. This will be facilitated by regular teleconferences, meetings and research visits between us and our partners, ensuring effective management of the joint projects and regular exchange of idea and results. Participation in this project provides opportunities for us to continue to contribute strongly to the technical development of ET and ensures that we continue to be an integral part of future developments in the field of gravitational wave detection in Europe.
Impact TBC - activity started last month
Start Year 2013
 
Description ET-R&D collaboration 
Organisation University of Birmingham
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We are contributing experimental and modelling expertise to three of the working groups (WG) in this project. In WG1 we will develop methods of parameter estimation for transient signals detected by ET, through application of our existing expertise in gravitational wave data analysis. In WG3 we will develop apparatus for measuring the birefringence of coated silicon samples and apply our expertise in finite element modelling to assist in the interpretation of cryogenic birefringence measurements carried out in collaboration with Hannover and Jena. In WG4 we will carry out studies and simulations of sensing and control issues for ET and carry out detailed modelling of the quantum noise and optical configuration.
Collaborator Contribution The aim of this project is to carry out essential collaborative research and development on key out-standing topics of the technical design of the Einstein Telescope, a 3rd generation underground gravitational wave detector. The three working groups we are participating in aim to study the scientific potential of ET, investigate key optical properties of silicon mirrors and study the advanced interferometer control systems required for ET. Each of these areas requires close collaboration with our European partners and the combination of the facilities and expertise of the participating groups. This will be facilitated by regular teleconferences, meetings and research visits between us and our partners, ensuring effective management of the joint projects and regular exchange of idea and results. Participation in this project provides opportunities for us to continue to contribute strongly to the technical development of ET and ensures that we continue to be an integral part of future developments in the field of gravitational wave detection in Europe.
Impact TBC - activity started last month
Start Year 2013
 
Description ET-R&D collaboration 
Organisation University of Warsaw
Department Polish ET Consortium
Country Poland 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We are contributing experimental and modelling expertise to three of the working groups (WG) in this project. In WG1 we will develop methods of parameter estimation for transient signals detected by ET, through application of our existing expertise in gravitational wave data analysis. In WG3 we will develop apparatus for measuring the birefringence of coated silicon samples and apply our expertise in finite element modelling to assist in the interpretation of cryogenic birefringence measurements carried out in collaboration with Hannover and Jena. In WG4 we will carry out studies and simulations of sensing and control issues for ET and carry out detailed modelling of the quantum noise and optical configuration.
Collaborator Contribution The aim of this project is to carry out essential collaborative research and development on key out-standing topics of the technical design of the Einstein Telescope, a 3rd generation underground gravitational wave detector. The three working groups we are participating in aim to study the scientific potential of ET, investigate key optical properties of silicon mirrors and study the advanced interferometer control systems required for ET. Each of these areas requires close collaboration with our European partners and the combination of the facilities and expertise of the participating groups. This will be facilitated by regular teleconferences, meetings and research visits between us and our partners, ensuring effective management of the joint projects and regular exchange of idea and results. Participation in this project provides opportunities for us to continue to contribute strongly to the technical development of ET and ensures that we continue to be an integral part of future developments in the field of gravitational wave detection in Europe.
Impact TBC - activity started last month
Start Year 2013
 
Description ET-R&D collaboration 
Organisation University of the West of Scotland
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We are contributing experimental and modelling expertise to three of the working groups (WG) in this project. In WG1 we will develop methods of parameter estimation for transient signals detected by ET, through application of our existing expertise in gravitational wave data analysis. In WG3 we will develop apparatus for measuring the birefringence of coated silicon samples and apply our expertise in finite element modelling to assist in the interpretation of cryogenic birefringence measurements carried out in collaboration with Hannover and Jena. In WG4 we will carry out studies and simulations of sensing and control issues for ET and carry out detailed modelling of the quantum noise and optical configuration.
Collaborator Contribution The aim of this project is to carry out essential collaborative research and development on key out-standing topics of the technical design of the Einstein Telescope, a 3rd generation underground gravitational wave detector. The three working groups we are participating in aim to study the scientific potential of ET, investigate key optical properties of silicon mirrors and study the advanced interferometer control systems required for ET. Each of these areas requires close collaboration with our European partners and the combination of the facilities and expertise of the participating groups. This will be facilitated by regular teleconferences, meetings and research visits between us and our partners, ensuring effective management of the joint projects and regular exchange of idea and results. Participation in this project provides opportunities for us to continue to contribute strongly to the technical development of ET and ensures that we continue to be an integral part of future developments in the field of gravitational wave detection in Europe.
Impact TBC - activity started last month
Start Year 2013
 
Description GEO600 
Organisation GEO collaboration
Country Global 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution We have provided fused silica suspensions for the GEO 600 gravitational wave detector. These complex mechanical systems suspend the core optical components, i.e. mirrors and beam-splitters, which form the interferometer at the heart of each detector. We have also contributed to almost every other area of detector development, construction, installation and operation, and also to analysis of the resulting data. Examples include contributions to: detector topology and layout; interferometer sensing and control; digital control sub-systems; radio-frequency electro-optic modulation equipment; efficient photo-detection; seismic isolation; seismic monitoring; feed-forward seismic sensing and control; detector supervisory control infrastructure; detector calibration systems; low-level data collection and processing algorithms and systems; laser stabilisation and monitoring; environmental monitoring; data searches for continuous signals (pulsars) and data searches for burst signals (black hole formation).
Collaborator Contribution The GEO600 team collaborates with the GW groups in the USA (LIGO), in France/Italy (Virgo) and in Japan (TAMA300). As a member of the LIGO Scientific Collaboration (LSC) and the Virgo Collaboration, GEO600 has performed several long-term data runs together with the other gravitational wave detectors, in the search for the first observations. Financial support for the GEO project has been supplied by the State of Lower Saxony, the Max Planck Society, the Science and Technology Facilities Council, the Volkswagen Foundation, and the Federal Republic of Germany. Personnel costs are supplied by the Max Planck Society and the Leibniz University Hannover, running costs by the Max Planck Society Membership of the GEO is core to our research. It provides access to gravitational wave data, opportunities to contribute to instrument upgrades, training for our graduate students and PDRAs, and is the first destination for many of our technology developments. Membership of GEO was a step towards membership of the LSC (q.v.). Collaborators operate the GEO 600 detector to produce data. They archive this and enable us to access it for analysis and carry out joint analysis with us. Collaborators host our equipment at the detector, which we built jointly with them. Through exchange visits and regular meetings there is exchange of ideas on all aspects of gravitational wave detector design.
Impact Philip Leverhulme Prize RCUK Fellowship Post-doctoral Fellowship EC Framework 7 Infrastructures program International Joint Project Award scheme Travel grant RCUK Science Bridges RCUK Science Bridges Seedcorn grant Research Merit Award JISC Grant SUPA Studentship Science in Society Fellowship RSE/Scottish Executive Personal Research Fellowship MP FS AH MB SR Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition 2008 Appearance on Radio 4 programme "In our time" Appearance on BBC One Countryfile Regular visits to local schools Public lectures at Science Centres and Science Festivals Events for International Year of Astronomy 2009 Lectures to amateur astronomical societies Meet the Scientist @ Glasgow Science Centre Science @ the Scottish Parliament Astronomy's New Messengers Icarus at the Edge of Time CPD Training for schoolteachers ScienceFace Scottish Science Advisory Council Technology Development Hydroxy-catalysis bonding for technology applications Hydroxy-catalysis bonding for research Fused silica suspension fibres for application in technology Fused silica suspension fibres for gravitational wave detectors Bayesian Techniques in precision optical sensing Bayesian Techniques in gravitational wave data analysis Amplitude or arbitrary phase sideband optical cavity probes Diffractively coupled high finesse optical cavities Silicon Carbide bonding Berlin 2009 GWADW 2009 Amaldi 2009 RAS NAM 2009 GWADW 2009 RAS NAM 2008 Texas 2008 Moscow 2008 Schuster Colloquium Elizabeth Spreadbury Lecture RSE Gunning Victoria Jubilee Prize Lectureship Wolfson Research Merit Award Tannahill Lecture and Medal Fellow ISGRGI FRSE (1) FInstP (1) FRAS (1) FRSE (2) Max-Planck-Society FRAS (2) History and Development of Knowledge IOP Nuclear and Particle Physics Divisional Conference Advanced Detector Workshop Kyoto LISA Symposium Stanford Advanced Detector Workshop Florida Gravitational Wave Bursts meeting Mexico ILIAS Dresden IoP NPPD conference Glasgow 12th Marcel Grossman meeting Paris Lomonosov conference Moscow Advanced Detector Workshop Florida GR19 Meeting Mexico LISA International Symposium Stanford OECD Global Science Forum India IAU Rio de Janeiro Amaldi NY Fujihara Seminar Tokyo OECD Global Science Forum Cracow NEB X111 Thessaloniki New Worlds Portugal PASCOS 07 London LEOS Montreal XX1X Spanish Relativity Meeting Mallorca Rencontres de Moriond Italy Texas Symposium Heidelberg Aspera Workshop Paris IoP HEPP and AP Annual Meeting Frontiers in Optics, OSA, San Jose Amaldi NY Fujiwara Foundation Seminar Japan Advanced Detector Workshop Florida IoP Astroparticle meeting Oxford Cosmo 07 Sussex Aspera Workshop Paris Workshop on Charging Issues MIT IoP NPPD Annual conference Surrey RAS ordinary meeting London ILIAS Italy IAU General Assembly Prague NPPD Conference Glasgow Statistical Challenges Penn State Amaldi student talk Visiting Professorship Jena STFC Particle Astrophysics Advisory panel Physical and Engineering Committee of ESF SSAC Chair GWIC Chair STFC Panels Royal Society Research Grants Panel Aspera/ApPEC Science Advisory Committee Trustee RSE RSE Fellowship Committee IoP Awards Committee Chair LIGO Election & Membership GWIC Deputy Chair PPAN RSE Grants Committee RSE Sectional Committee Stanford-Scotland Photonics GEO Executive Committee FP7 ET Design Study Member STFC Science Committee PPAN GWIC Roadmap committee STFC Oversight Committee Zeplin III Aspera/ApPEC Peer Review Committee Governing Council FP6 ILIAS Aspera/ApPEC Roadmap Committee Advanced Detector committee LSC Publication Policy committee LSC LSC CW Group co-Chair reelected SUPA Astro theme leader LSC CW Group co-chair LSC Detection Committee LSC Data Analysis Council FRSE Aspen Center for Physics 2008 Aspen Center for Physics 2011 Advanced Detectors Workshop Kyoto Cosmic Co-Motion Queensland SAMSI North Carolina Center for Astrostatistics Penn State RAS NAM Llandudno Cosmology and Machine Learning UCL ILIAS Dresden PF PhD FB PhD KC Ugrad LO Ugrad RD Ugrad LM Ugrad LMac Ugrad AB Ugrad EWB Ugrad DF PhD ST Staff BL Staff HW PhD KB RA SF Staff KS staff LSF staff ZP Ugrad DH PhD RU Ugrad NH Ugrad MC Ugrad SL Ugrad NG Ugrad CS PhD OB PhD OB PhD MB PhD EJ Ugrad RM Ugrad RW Ugrad SJ Ugrad SL Ugrad BL Staff BG Ugrad AP PhD PS staff VM staff LG Staff CC PhD SZ Ugrad NM PhD MJ staff AG PhD FGC PhD
 
Description SUPA 
Organisation The Scottish Universities Physics Alliance (SUPA)
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We have contributed research outcomes, such as hyrdroxy-catalysis bonding. Another major area of contribution has been through lecture courses and workshops arranged through the SUPA Graduate School, and by arranging seminars by prestigious international visitors, and broadcasting them to all partners.
Collaborator Contribution Adopting a coherent approach to staffing strategy, research training, research initiatives and funding opportunities, SUPA™ pools and enhances Scotland's strongest physics research areas and will develop as a world leader in physics, creating the largest group of physics researchers in the UK. It is also intended as a single "front door" for potential staff, sponsors, and industrial collaborators. Major research themes being pursued are physics and life sciences, energy, astronomy, condensed matter and materials physics, nuclear and plasma physics, particle physics and photonics. The alliance brings together internationally leading physics research across Scotland to form the largest physics grouping in the UK. Enhanced links with the Astronomy Technology Centre, Edinburgh, have provided access to equipment and expertise, and continue to provide opportunities for extending research horizons, e.g. through the application of techniques we have developed for core research to other areas of astronomy.
Impact Philip Leverhulme Prize Research Merit Award SUPA Studentship MP FS AH MB SR Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition 2008 Appearance on Radio 4 programme "In our time" Appearance on BBC One Countryfile Regular visits to local schools Public lectures at Science Centres and Science Festivals Events for International Year of Astronomy 2009 Lectures to amateur astronomical societies Meet the Scientist @ Glasgow Science Centre Science @ the Scottish Parliament Astronomy's New Messengers Icarus at the Edge of Time CPD Training for schoolteachers ScienceFace Scottish Science Advisory Council Technology Development Hydroxy-catalysis bonding for technology applications Hydroxy-catalysis bonding for research Fused silica suspension fibres for application in technology Fused silica suspension fibres for gravitational wave detectors Berlin 2009 GWADW 2009 Amaldi 2009 RAS NAM 2009 GWADW 2009 RAS NAM 2008 Texas 2008 Moscow 2008 Schuster Colloquium Elizabeth Spreadbury Lecture RSE Gunning Victoria Jubilee Prize Lectureship Wolfson Research Merit Award Tannahill Lecture and Medal LISA International Symposium Stanford OECD Global Science Forum India New Worlds Portugal PASCOS 07 London LEOS Montreal Rencontres de Moriond Italy Frontiers in Optics, OSA, San Jose Visiting Professorship Jena STFC Particle Astrophysics Advisory panel Physical and Engineering Committee of ESF SSAC Chair GWIC Chair STFC Panels Royal Society Research Grants Panel Trustee RSE RSE Fellowship Committee IoP Awards Committee Deputy Chair PPAN RSE Grants Committee RSE Sectional Committee Stanford-Scotland Photonics Member STFC Science Committee PPAN SUPA Astro theme leader PF PhD FB PhD KC Ugrad LO Ugrad RD Ugrad LM Ugrad LMac Ugrad AB Ugrad EWB Ugrad DF PhD ST Staff BL Staff HW PhD KB RA SF Staff KS staff LSF staff ZP Ugrad DH PhD RU Ugrad NH Ugrad MC Ugrad SL Ugrad NG Ugrad CS PhD OB PhD OB PhD MB PhD EJ Ugrad RM Ugrad RW Ugrad SJ Ugrad SL Ugrad
 
Title Mechanical bioreactor 
Description https://patents.google.com/patent/GB201514734D0/en 
IP Reference GB201514734D0 
Protection Patent application published
Year Protection Granted 2017
Licensed No
Impact Development of stem cell derived osteoblasts (bone building cells) for research, drug discovery, and regenerative medicine (surgical bone graft).
 
Description Article in Paisley Express newspaper, on Reid, highlighting the discovery of gravitational waves. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Large newspaper article on gravitational wave discovery and the involvement of the University of the West of Scotland.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
URL http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/all-about/paisley
 
Description BBC Radio Scotland, Newsdrive program, 12th February 2016, "scientific discovery and innovation" discussion 
Form Of Engagement Activity A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Invited interview on BBC Scotland radio station, around 5pm (rush hour commuting target audience)
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
URL http://www.bbc.co.uk/radioscotland
 
Description Birney, Talk, Stanford (US), "Diamond-Like Carbon for potential use as protective and high emissivity coating for future mirror suspensions", 2014 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other academic audiences (collaborators, peers etc.)
Results and Impact Huge interest in capabilities in UWS. Many questions.

Request for additional information to be sent to colleagues working in the LIGO Scientific Collaboration (LSC) in the US.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014
URL https://dcc.ligo.org/LIGO-G1400975
 
Description Birney, talk, Takayama (Japan), GWADW (Gravitational wave advanced detector workshop), "DLC fabrication capabilities at UWS, with potential applications for protective and high emissivity coating", 2014. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other academic audiences (collaborators, peers etc.)
Results and Impact Huge interest in capabilities at UWS. Initiated orders from Virgo and KAGRA international projects for fabirating baffle and suspension components for their GW detectors.

Initiated orders from Virgo and KAGRA international projects for fabirating baffle and suspension components for their GW detectors.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014
URL http://www.gravity.ircs.titech.ac.jp/GWADW2014/program.htm
 
Description BlueDot Music Festival - talk on gravitational waves 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact BlueDot
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
URL http://www.discoverthebluedot.com
 
Description Careers networking event - Morrisons Academy high school, Crieff, Perthshire 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Presented my research areas (gravitational waves, nanokicking/stem cells) and described career opportunities within physics and biomedical engineering.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
URL https://twitter.com/macmorrisons/status/971349384926519296
 
Description Dundee Astronomical, Searching for signals from the dark side of the Universe. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Standard Astronomical Society type presentation. Very interested audience.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014
URL http://www.dundeeastro.com
 
Description Invited public talk at Joint Congress of University Astronomical Societies, Galway, Ireland (Mar 2019) 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Invited public talk at Joint Congress of University Astronomical Societies, Galway, Ireland (Mar 2019)
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Invited seminar/colloquim, University of Glasgow (UK) 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Invited talk on Nanokicking (stem cell) research.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Invited talk in conjuction with Coats Observatory and UWS, History of Astronomy in Paisley. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Event organised between Coats Observatory and the UWS Physics Society. Talk by Reid.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014
 
Description Invited talk to the Renfrewshire Astronomical Society, Paisley 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Invited talk to the Renfrewshire Astronomical Society, Paisley
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description Invited talk to the Stirling Astronomical Society, Paisley. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact as above
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description Keynote public lecture for the British Orthopaedic Research Society (BORS). 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact BORS
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
URL http://borsoc.org.uk/
 
Description Media (videos) produced for marketing purposes (UK role in gravitational wave detector development) 
Form Of Engagement Activity A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Marketing materials prepare to highlight UK (GEO600) contribution to building Advanced LIGO (gravitational wave detectors, US).
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://www.geo600.org/1725649/GEO600_Interviews
 
Description Public talk with Prof. Andrew Hart (Plastic Surgeon), Clinicians in Research Network 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact n/a
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Re-write the Headlines activity with local school - 1 workshop session - Kingcase Primary school (UK) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Workshop
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://researchtheheadlines.org
 
Description Re-write the Headlines activity with local school - 2 workshop sessions - Todholm Primary school (UK) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Schools workshop
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://researchtheheadlines.org
 
Description Re-write the Headlines activity with local school - 3 workshop sessions - Craigholme primary school (UK) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact School workshop
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://researchtheheadlines.org
 
Description Re-write the Headlines activity with local school - 3 workshop sessions - St. Francis of Assisi Primary school (UK) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Schools workshop
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://researchtheheadlines.org
 
Description Re-write the Headlines activity with local school - 3 workshop sessions - St. Mirren's primary (UK) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Schools workshop.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://researchtheheadlines.org
 
Description Re-write the Headlines activity with local school - workshop sessions - St. Mun's Primary School, Dunoon (UK) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact School workshop
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://researchtheheadlines.org
 
Description Reid, Evening Times article 02/07/2014, entitled "Top honour for Scots scientist", 2014 
Form Of Engagement Activity A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact n/a
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014
URL http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/news/top-honour-for-scots-scientist-169495n.24642902
 
Description Reid, IOP and BSF public lecture, Glasgow, 2014 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Huge interest in talk from participants. This was the first ever public talk on nanokicking.

Many questions at end of talk.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014
URL http://www.astro.gla.ac.uk/users/martin/ioplect/lecture3.pdf
 
Description Reid, Paisley Express article 04/07/2014, "Uni space expert over the moon over new role", 2014 
Form Of Engagement Activity A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact n/a
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014
 
Description Reid, Talk, Renfrewshire Astronomical Society, 2014 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Audience very interested in the topic (gravitational wave detection). Stimulated stronger links between the Society, the Coates Observatory, and the University (UWS).

Invited to come back to present at Coates Observatory later in 2014.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014
 
Description Reid, Talk, public talk in Paisley, "A star's life", 2014 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Good attendance and significant interest in astronomy research activities in UWS in astronomy.

Requests for additional talks.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014
URL http://www.uws.ac.uk/news---categories/engineering-and-computing/academics-to-give-insight-into-the-...
 
Description Reid, talk, Dundee Astronomical Society, 2014 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Huge interest from audience in the status of gravitational wave detection

Invited to come back
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014
URL http://dundeeastro.com
 
Description Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition - Giving Stem Cells A Good (Nano)kicking 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact 14500 visitors over 7 days.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
URL http://www.nanokick.com
 
Description Science in Parliament event - Scottish Government - Society of Chemical Industry (SCI) stand - Reid to lead 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Policymakers/politicians
Results and Impact Science and Parliament engagement event, organised by the Royal Society of Chemistry
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://www.rsc.org/events/detail/19918/Science%20and%20the%20Parliament%202015
 
Description Talk on Physics and Astronomy, Gryffe High School, 23 Sept 2015 (Bridge of Weir, UK) 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact School talk on physics, astronomy, and gravitational waves.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
 
Description The Borders Science Festival (Peebles public library) 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Public talk on gravitational wave detection at the Borders Science Festival
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
URL https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=2&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjRx-Pp-9...
 
Description UWS Daring2bDifferent Festival, 2 talks, 100 years of Physics Innovation at UWS (Dumfries) 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Talk in relation to scientific innovation in Paisley over the last 100 years. Part of the UWS Daring2bDifferent Festival.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://moodle.uws.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=5442
 
Description UWS Daring2bDifferent Festival, 2 talks, 100 years of Physics Innovation at UWS (Paisley) 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Presentation on scientific innovation in Paisley over the past 100 years. Organised by UWS, as part of the Daring2bDifferent Festival.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
URL http://moodle.uws.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=5442