Cranfield and IOG announce artificial turf research

CRANFIELD AND THE IOG PROMOTE ARTIFICIAL SURFACE RESEARCH

Cranfield University and the Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) have announced an Engineering Doctorate studentship to conduct research into the maintenance of artificial turf surfaces.

The four-year research programme is being jointly financed by the Institute's IOG 2000 Fund and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

Martin Ford, IOG National Treasurer and Chairman of the IOG 2000 Fund Committee, said: "We are very pleased to be able to support this important area of research. We believe that there is a real need for proven, factual information related to the ongoing maintenance cost implications of artificial surfaces. This will be of real value to our members and the industry."

There have been a large number of quality applicants for this exciting new project, and candidates can expect their careers to rapidly progress to a senior management position. The Engineering Doctorate, which is offered by only five universities in the UK, integrates management strategy with engineering and physical science research.

Dr Iain James, Research Leader Cranfield Centre for Sports Surfaces, said: "The Engineering Doctorate programme provides a unique research opportunity for the industry and the individual. This will allow them to develop new, practical solutions using high-end scientific and engineering techniques integrated with the industry's future requirements.

"There is a clear knowledge gap in current understanding of the maintenance of artificial surfaces and research in this area will be key for growth in the adoption and sustainability of artificial surfaces."

Visit Cranfield University's stand at IOG SALTEX at the Windsor Racecourse, 2-4 September 2003, for more details.

For further information about the Engineering Doctorate please contact Student Enquiries T: 01525 863319 E: StudentEnquiries.silsoe@cranfield.ac.uk