The ceramics theme is run by Drs Hywel Jones and Paul Bingham. Its aim is to provide enhanced capability for the much needed delivery of ceramics and glass related consultancy, contract research and knowledge transfer (KT) projects by the University. It will generate additional industrial links which could provide future third stream income as well as student placements and employment opportunities.

The key objective of the theme is to enhance the level of engagement and knowledge transfer between the University and industrial partners in the field of technical ceramics and glasses. This includes the manufacturers of ceramic and glass products but also companies who are the end users of such products, either within their products or in their manufacturing process.

Until recently the only source of expertise on technical ceramics in Sheffield Hallam has been Dr Jones and his time has been spent delivering KT support, research and consultancy across all materials types. Recently Dr Bingham has joined the University, bringing expertise in both glasses and ceramics along with additional industrial contacts and networks. Dr Jones' recent success in exploiting research outputs and Dr Bingham's success in attracting research and knowledge transfer funding has also begun to raise the profile of Sheffield Hallam as a place where ceramics and glass expertise can be found. Thus, the theme is designed to build on these strengths and to ensure that the University is seen as "open for business" in terms of ceramics and glass consultancy, contract research and KT. The theme will allow the staff to dedicate time to the delivery of this message and also to ensuring that the facilities and services available can meet the requirements of industry.

Both staff are experienced in contract research, consultancy activities and event planning and the theme will aim to bring these related (but currently separate) activities together through engagement with industrial partners. The ceramics theme will build upon the relationship between Jones and Bingham and will allow them to work together to develop a joint offering in KT and consultancy for technical ceramics and glasses.