This highly competitive award is presented annually to an Early Career Researcher in the field of Tribology and candidates are assessed on their potential for a high-profile tribology career, considering factors like research originality, publications, outreach, awards, education, and career achievements.
Kieran's PhD research delved into the relationship between tribology and additive manufacturing (3D printing), specifically examining the surface properties, friction, and wear of polymer laser-sintered components. His work resulted in several publications and conference presentations in this emerging field.
During his time in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Sheffield, Kieran took on a range of other internal and external activities. These included teaching and training, supporting the IMEchE Tribology group, and various outreach-focused activities. He also took the lead in organising TriboUK 2023, an annual student-led tribology conference offering early career researchers the opportunity to share their work with peers and build academic and industrial connections. Kieran and his team raised over £10,000 in sponsorship for this event, enabling them to run the conference with no attendance fees.
Kieran said: “I am incredibly grateful and honoured to be awarded the IMechE Tribology Bronze Medal and it feels amazing to be recognised for my contributions to Tribology. This achievement would not have been possible without the encouragement, expertise and guidance of my two fantastic supervisors, Dr Candice Majewski and Professor Roger Lewis. I am excited to continue my career in Tribology and eager to embrace the new opportunities ahead.”
Supervisor Dr Candice Majewski said: “Kieran was an absolute pleasure to supervise; passionate and excited, while managing to stay rigorous and methodical in his work. He took on a wide range of extra activities during his PhD, and I'm delighted to see his hard work and enthusiasm rewarded with this medal!”
Following completion of his PhD, Kieran has taken a new role as an Applications Development Associate for PCS Instruments.
More information about Kieran and his award can be found here.