Physics Facilities and Laboratories
Explore optics, lasers and materials. Our Joule Physics labs are a centre of discovery.
Head of Physics, Professor Ian Morrison
Head of Physics Research, Dr Marina Leontiadou
Our Joule Physics Laboratories features purpose-built suites of large, open-plan teaching space. This dedicated learning environment includes specialist areas and equipment for electronics, optics, lasers, computing, and materials synthesis and characterisation.
Research
Our research facilities support advanced materials deposition and processing, alongside comprehensive structural, optical, and electrical characterisation capabilities. These resources enable research across a broad spectrum of applications, including solar energy harvesting, physics in extreme environments, and emerging quantum technologies.
For further details on our research themes and capabilities, please visit our dedicated page.
Deposition and processing:
- RF and DC plasma sputtering
- Electron beam evaporation
- Chemical Vapour Deposition
- Argon Arc Furnace
- Rapid Thermal Annealer
- Direct write photolithography
Characterisation:
- Scanning electron microscopy
- Atomic Force Microscopy
- Surface profilometry
- Ultra-fast laser spectroscopy
- Time-resolved optical spectroscopy
- Diamond Anvil Cells
- Cryogenic spectroscopy
- Automated confocal microscopy
- Hall Effect
Teaching facilities
The Joule Physics laboratories feature a purpose-built suite of spacious, modern teaching environments designed to enhance hands‑on learning and collaboration. This includes:
- Two general physics laboratories
- Electronics laboratory
- Optics and laser laboratory
- Microfabrication laboratory and clean room
- Vacuum training facilities
These laboratory spaces are also open for public engagement activities, applicant visit days and school visits, allowing visitors to engage with cutting‑edge physics and gain insight into university‑level study.