Advanced Imaging & Sensing MSc

University of Glasgow

Optical imaging and sensing underpins research across all fields of Physics, Engineering, Environmental Science and Medical and Life Sciences. Prominent examples include the multitude of modalities used to image medical and biological processes, remote sensing of the environment and for surveillance and as an enabling technology within measurement instruments. Advanced imaging and sensing (AIS) thus enables advances in fundamental physics, such as the birth of gravitational-wave astronomy and the discovery of the Higgs boson. The importance of AIS to society is highlighted by the ever-increasing number and sophistication of imaging and sensing systems embedded into modern smartphones and cars. This MSc provides flexible multi-disciplinary training for future researchers in the wider field of AIS. The MSc is delivered through a suite of taught courses delivered by the Schools of Physics & Astronomy, Engineering, and Computing Science, giving you a broad base of training in the fundamentals of imaging and sensing, device-engineering, system engineering and end-to-end processing of data. You will conduct an in-depth independent research project embedded within one of our specialist research groups, gaining the hands-on experience that is ideal preparation for a PhD or industrial research. All training is delivered by subject experts. You will benefit from the world-leading research at Glasgow University across a broad range of Imaging and Sensing. Physics research has been evaluated as 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent' in the latest Research Excellence Framework (2021). There is the opportunity for some students to conduct projects with one of our industry partners.Career prospectsYou will gain an understanding of the physical principles and applications required to embark on a research career in imaging and sensing. Students can tailor the training programme to increase the emphasis on specific specialisations, such as in imaging systems, device technology, computational imaging, microscopy, surveillance, biomedical imaging or remote sensing. The programme also includes training in essential research skills such as creativity, technical communication and project management.The need for skills in this area is driven by an imaging and sensing systems market valued at £500Bn with an annual growth rate of 10%. The Scottish sensor systems market is worth £2.6Bn pa. There are over 170 sensor systems companies based in Scotland (SMEs and large companies), employing 16,000 people in high-value jobs including product R&D, design, engineering, manufacturing and field services.The academic rigour of this programme makes it an excellent choice for those wanting to focus on academic or industrial research careers and to play a leading role in the development of the next generation of imaging and sensing.