Module Overview
The systems integration for Scientists module provides a hands-on introduction to building experimental setups and system prototypes, essential for lab-based nanoscience research. Students will learn a variety of skills in basic electronics and prototype manufacturing via a series of workshops. For the 2024-2025 academic year, these will take place during the student’s initial 6-month training (Lent term) prior to their starting their PhD projects.
Training
Through a series of hands-on workshops, students will gain practical confidence in areas that they may encounter during their PhD when building and handling advanced experimental systems. Topics include:
- Basic microcontrollers, concentrating on Arduino
- Using analog and digital sensors
- Basic outputs
- Simple feedback systems
- Introduction to op-amps
- Interfacing Arduino with python
- Debugging embedded systems

Projects
A key part of this module is an extended group project, which includes focuses on automating or enhancing the capability of a nano-related experiment in a host lab.
Projects chosen in 2022-23 include:
- Self-alignment of laser beams for (nano-)spectroscopy
- Expanding Materiom’s Autonomous Platform for biomaterial synthesis and testing
- Improving control and monitoring of electrochemical etching of porous GaN
- Gas flow control and automation
