• Assistant professor, teaching focussed
• Deputy Senior Tutor
• Institute of Physics Juno panel member

Background

I graduated from the University of Leeds in 1988 with a degree in Textile Chemistry, and from University of Warwick in 1995 with a PhD in Materials Physics. Recent research interests include glasses and ceramics, sol-gel and thermography. I also have experience working in the diamond group at Warwick, using a high pressure high temperature press to look at diffusion in diamond. I have also undertaken research in the Ultrasonics group, looking at high temperature piezoelectric sensors and laser-EMAT systems, with previous experience gained in laser generated ultrasound and the propagation of Lamb waves for use in Non-Destructive Evaluation.

Teaching

I am the manager for the teaching labs, covering first year, second year and the MPhys labs, supporting modules PX151, PX152, PX271, PX283, PX428, PX442. I am also involved in delivering the Communicating Science module, PX376.

My interest in music is utilised through lecturing in the science of acoustic instruments, part of the Science of Music interdisciplinary module run by the Institute for Advanced Teaching and Learning, IL116.

Research

My areas of research include high temperature ultrasound; this can involve either generating/detecting ultrasound using piezoelectric sensors with a high Curie point, or using a watercooled EMAT (electromagnetic transducer) either on its own or with a laser for ultrasound generation (laser-EMAT). These techniques can be used to look at phase transitions in materials.

My other main area of research is in glass ceramics. A recent industrially funded project involves looking at leaching of nuclear waste glasses in different ground waters, to gain an understanding of the corrosion processes and to look at the compositional and structural changes which may occur.

Other

I am the Juno/Athena SWAN lead for the Welfare and Communication Group in the department which looks at equality, diversity and good working practices. The department currently holds a Juno Champion award from the Institute of Physics and an Athena SWAN Silver award; more details on these awards can be found here and information about the 'Women and gender minorities in Physics' group can be found hereLink opens in a new window

 

Write To:

Department of Physics, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL

Contact Details:

Office: PS1.03
Telephone:
+44 (0) 2476550124
E-Mail:
s.e.burrows@warwick.ac.uk

Links: