Thin Films, Sensors & Imaging

Institute of Thin Films, Sensors and Imaging

The Institute of Thin Films, Sensors and Imaging (ITFSI) is a research institute at the University of the West of Scotland. Founded by Professor Des Gibson September 2014 from an amalgamation of two previous research groups in thin films and microscale sensors, ITFSI is a centre of excellence and key laboratory in the UK for the development of thin film technology and dissemination of information on the applications of thin films.

ITFSI specialises in thin films for various applications including medical devices, sensors, engineering, optics, electronic devices, ultrasonics and photonics. ITFSI research has lead to patented products include miniaturised spectrometers for gas sensing, ultrasonic transducers, hyper-spectral imaging for agritech and durable infra-red optical coatings for use in autonomous vehicle imaging optics. More information on ITFSI can be found here.

The institute has received extensive funding support from amongst others EPSRC, InnovatteUK, Censis Innovation Centre, Scottish Funding Council, Royal Society, Horizon 2020 and STFC.

Institute researchers have strong expertise in thin film deposition and characterisation, micro/nanoscale film/structure design, micro-mechanics and nanotechnology. Institute facilities are unique within the academic community, providing necessary vacuum deposition capability to support institute specific and collaborative research.

MSc Advanced Thin Film Technologies

Institute staff also deliver the University's MSc Advanced Thin Film Technologies. 

The advanced Masters programme provides up-to-date coverage of evolving thin film technologies and latest developments in the field. It develops the multi-disciplinary skills needed for professional development within this rapidly expanding field and forms the basis for future professional Chartered Engineer and/or Chartered Physicist status. 

The MSc is ideal for engineering or science graduates planning a career in research, development, production and/or business involving thin film technologies.

MSc Advanced Thin Film Technologies guide

Partners

The Institute of Thin Films, Sensors and Imaging provides a unique service for industry in the research and development of deposition processes for thin films, design and fabrication of thin film products, characterisation of thin films and the dissemination of information about the applications of thin films.

Collaboration

The Institute collaborates with a wide range of industries and applications including ophthalmics, optics, telecoms, flexible displays, bio engineering, energy generation, decorative and barrier coatings for pharmaceutical and food products.

Experience

ITFSI have sgnificant experience in working with Small to Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs) as well as large scale companies.

Links to Partner Sites

Scottish Universities Physics Alliance  |  https://www.supa.ac.uk/

Technology Scotland |  https://www.technologyscotland.scot/

Institute of Physics | www.iop.org

Scottish Enterprise | www.scottish-enterprise.com

LIGO Scientific Collaboration |  https://www.ligo.org/

SPIE | www.spie.org

Infrared Multilayer Laboratory (University of Reading)   | www.reading.ac.uk/cybernetics

Thin Film Software Links

MacLeod | www.thinkfilmcenter.com

TFC Calc | www.spectra.com

FilmStar | www.ftgsoftware.com

Optilayer | www.optilayer.com