UK Metamaterials Network holds third Annual Industry Showcase, hosted by the Institute of Physics

The UK Metamaterials Network (UKMMN), part of the EPSRC NetworkPlus, recently held its third annual Industry Showcase, ‘Metamaterials in the Real World,’ at the Institute of Physics. The event saw significant interest, with approximately 120 delegates, including industry and government stakeholders, and academic attendees.

The event began with a welcome session at 11:00, filling the lecture theatre with delegates eager to explore the landscape of metamaterials in the UK. Louis Barson, IOP Director of Science, Innovation, and Skills, set the tone, emphasizing the importance of demonstrating impact to accelerate the commercialisation of metamaterials.

Isabel Webb from the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology provided the government perspective, highlighting the relationship between regulation and innovation and the opportunities that metamaterials present.

UKMMN leads, Alastair Hibbins (University of Exeter) and Claire Dancer (University of Warwick), detailed the UKMMN’s mission to connect academia, industry, and government to fully utilise the UK’s metamaterials research and capabilities.

Helen Rance (Science and Strategy Manager for the UKMMN) and Jen Lovell (Science and Innovation Manager for the Institute of Physics) broke down initial findings from the Institute of Physics Impact Project Pathfinder: Commercialising Metamaterials. For further information, see: Institute of Physics Impact Project Pathfinder: Commercialising Metamaterials

Panel Discussion

A panel discussion featuring five experts from government and industry explored successes, future development areas, and the pathway from research to commercialisation. Mike Hinton (High Value Manufacturing Catapult) spoke to the progress of metamaterials and opportunity presented, saying that, ‘We’re at the top of the hill now, and therefore I think it’s the time where we need to pick up […] and just now move.’ The panel also reflected on the challenges faced by innovation and development as John Lee (AMD Nano) emphasized the importance of practical endpoints for innovation. The panel highlighted the need for bridging the gap between academia and industry to address commercialisation challenges.

Snap Presentations

The event featured eighteen ‘Snap Presentations’. Keynote speaker Mike Sloan (Director of Technical Composite Solutions) discussed his company’s journey with metamaterials and was followed by a range of speakers, including academics and industry, showcasing problems, solutions, and real-world applications of metamaterials.

Where Next?

The 2024 Industry Showcase was a resounding success, reflecting the dedication of the UK metamaterials community. With stakeholders from SMEs, to government delegates, to academics sharing their insights, the event highlighted the momentum in the field.

Since the event we have been reflecting on what happens next – we believe that we are at a pivotal junction in the pathway to the ‘Metamaterials Revolution’ and realising the commercial value of ‘materials without compromise’.  To advance this we will meet will key stakeholders to establish a multi-year plan and we look forward to continuing to engage with the community as we take these exciting next steps!

Further details on the event (including the agenda and event booklet) may be found here.