Institute for Manufacturing

Institute for Manufacturing is part of the Cambridge University Engineering Department. The IfM integrates research and education with practical application in industry. It disseminates its research findings via a University-owned knowledge transfer company, IfM ECS. All areas of the IfM work closely with industry. Research is undertaken in collaboration with companies, ensuring its relevance to industrial needs and the rapid dissemination of new ideas and approaches. The IfM’s education programmes combine a thorough grounding in management and manufacturing technology with the chance to put theory into practice via industry-based projects.Its interests encompass a broad range of manufacturing activities, from understanding markets and technologies, through process and product design to production and supply chain operations and through-life services; all within an economics and policy context. As well, it has several groups working on technological aspects of manufacturing.LocationThe IfM Alan Reece building on the University's West Cambridge Site. Previously, the Institute occupied the former Cambridge University Press building in Mill Lane. The IfM moved to a large, custom building in West Cambridge, in June 2009.ResearchThe IfM's research is carried out within 15 main research prorgammes, each concentrating on a particular theme, and covering the full spectrum of technology, management and policy issues. Research is typically multi-disciplinary, and research projects frequently involve more than one centre. Typically co-ordinated in collaboration with industry, the research develops practical techniques for companies to improve their strategies, operations and technologies. the findings are disseminated through courses, conferences, workbooks and direct services to industry.EducationEducation programmes are widely valued for the comprehensive grounding they provide in engineering, management and economic principles. Students benefit from contact with world-class researchers as well as with experienced industrial professionals. Company-based projects are a significant feature of the programmes, enabling students to apply what they have learned to real industrial problems.