Bath researchers are developing next-generation propulsion with industry partners to create cleaner, more efficient systems for low-carbon transport.
IAAPS research
We conduct research impacting and contributing to clean, sustainable and equitable transport of people and goods aligned to delivering engineering net zero.
Our approach
Director, Professor Richard Burke, introduces our research approach to tackling the future of transport.
Our four pillars of research
Our transdisciplinary research is grouped under four key pillars, bringing together expertise from engineering and science across the Faculty and University.
Fundamental physics: electromechanical, electromagnetic, electrochemical, thermal, fluid mechanics, combustion, cryogenics
Propulsion technologies: batteries, electric machines & drives, fuel cells, turbomachinery, internal combustion engines, fueling systems, alternative fuels
Engineering processes: virtual and physical testing, modelling techniques, automation
Sustainable and inclusive mobility innovation: life-cycle assessment, business practices, behavioural change, policy
Our community
We are an active community of academics, researchers and students in close collaboration with our industrial partners at IAAPS Ltd. Find out about our team and latest news.
Automotive labs achieve Bronze LEAF accreditation for sustainability excellence
Our labs have earned Bronze LEAF accreditation, marking a significant milestone in sustainability through improved efficiency, reduced waste, and cost savings.
Play our video to see how our consultancy collaborations have created impact, built partnerships, and unlocked opportunities for our IAAPS members.
IAAPS research team
We are a team of academics and researchers working across automotive, aerospace, marine, and off-highway sectors to lead innovation in propulsion and mobility.
Based at the Bath and Bristol Science Park, IAAPS Ltd unites academic expertise with commercial focus to provide research as a service to industry.
Research stories
Our research has real results. Read about our successes.
Parliamentarians and regional leaders learn about GW4 R&D strengths at Bristol & Bath Science Park
The event at IAAPS and Isambard-AI focused on how GW4 universities Bath and Bristol are helping to unlock the West of England’s regional growth ambitions.
VR³ÉÈËÊÓÆµ expertise informs Parliamentary report on future transport skills
Expert evidence from IAAPS and the Institute of Coding has helps shape national recommendations on apprenticeships and workforce development.
VR³ÉÈËÊÓÆµ showcases clean transport innovation and skills during Mayoral visit to IAAPS
A visit from Helen Godwin to IAAPS highlighted the University’s growing role in driving regional growth through research, innovation and skills.
New partnership with Druck set for major breakthrough in developing hydrogen powered aircraft
VR³ÉÈËÊÓÆµ and Druck have been awarded a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) to develop cryogenic hydrogen sensors for net-zero aviation.
Future transport research centre IAAPS opens to school pupils to encourage careers in engineering
VR³ÉÈËÊÓÆµ facility takes part in Future of Work event to promote the possibilities of engineering careers
Electric bus research shows that improving reliability is crucial to cut costs, boost services and speed up the shift to greener public transport.
Work, study, collaborate with us
There are many ways you can get involved with IAAPS research, through study, research collaboration, consultancy services and more.
Enterprise: For businesses
We can support your business through access to expertise, innovation and funding.
Study one of our automotive master's degrees to develop skills that industry needs
Study an engineering master’s with a unique project-driven approach to learning, focusing on systems thinking and sustainability in the automotive sector.
Our CDT goes beyond the traditional engineering disciplines to bring together students from backgrounds in sciences, mathematics and social sciences.
Faculty of Engineering & Design postgraduate research degrees
Join our collaborative and supportive research community, and start your journey to becoming an expert in your field.
‘From IAAPS to Team Bath Zero, I have a bit of knowledge in spinny things!’
Mechanical Engineering undergraduate, Reza discusses his placement at IAAPS and experience of leading Team Bath Zero.
PhD researchers
Read about our students' research and their experience at Bath.
Researching sustainable, lightweight energy storage solutions
PhD researcher Paloma tells us about her research in composites and her journey from undergraduate student at Bath to being part of the AAPS CDT.
Forecasting electric vehicle adoption and charging demand on low-voltage networks
AAPS Centre for Doctoral Training student Isaac is pursuing a PhD that explores the intersection of transport and energy systems.
Who, why, and for how long? Understanding public support for Low Emission Zones in the UK
PhD graduate, Lois tells us about her research into transport, behaviour and society and her PhD experience with the AAPS Centre for Doctoral Training.
Using innovative ultrasound technology to improve the accuracy of testing lithium-ion batteries
Mac Geoffrey Ajaereh's PhD research uses ultrasound technology to better estimate the remaining charge in lithium-ion batteries.
AAPS CDT Doctoral researcher, Ellie Smallwood received the award for Radically Curious in the Faculty of Engineering & Design's 2025 Research Culture Awards.
VR³ÉÈËÊÓÆµ us
We bring together engineering, science, and social sciences in a transdisciplinary approach to ensure the future of transport is clean and sustainable. As well as researching the technical side of this challenge, we also recognise the importance of wider issues such as behaviour change to get to Engineering Net Zero.
Contact us
Please contact us to discuss our research and collaboration opportunities.