Inside the University of Glasgow’s State-of-the-Art Magnetism Lab

The University of Glasgow magnetism lab opening ceremony was attended by Professor Muhammad Imran; Uzma Khan, vice-principal for economic development and innovation; Professor Chris Pearce, vice-principal for research and knowledge exchange; and Eric Yeatman, head of the College of Science & Engineering. Image: University of Glasgow

The University of Glasgow in Scotland has unveiled its state-of-the-art magnetism lab, marking a major step forward in the field of medical magnetics research. Housed within the James Watt School of Engineering, the facility is designed to support pioneering studies into biomagnetic signals, with potential applications in healthcare, prosthetics, and human-computer interaction. A key feature of the lab is the MuRoom, a magnetically shielded environment that eliminates external interference, enabling researchers to develop highly sensitive devices for detecting weak magnetic fields generated by the human body. With a £250,000 investment from the university, this cutting-edge space is set to drive innovation, foster academic-industry collaborations, and support spinouts like Neuranics, which specializes in advanced magnetic sensor technologies.

Lab Design News spoke with Professor Hadi Heidari of the James Watt School of Engineering and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Neuranics, who led the installation of the magnetism lab. Heidari shared insights into the facility’s development, the challenges of engineering a magnetically shielded environment, and the groundbreaking research it will enable. From advancements in magnetomyography (MMG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG) to potential real-world applications in medical diagnostics and neurotechnology, this discussion explores how this new facility is poised to transform the future of magnetic sensing and biomedical innovation.

Q: How did you gather input from researchers and industry partners to ensure the lab’s design meets their needs?

A: The lab’s design was shaped through consultations with researchers, industry experts, and key stakeholders. This collaborative approach ensured that all feedback on the facility’s technical requirements and infrastructure was carefully considered, directly influencing its final design. 

Q: What specific challenges did end users identify during the planning phase, and how did the design team address them?

A: Challenges included finding a suitable location to accommodate the MuRoom that minimised the exposure to vibrational and electromagnetic interference—e.g., sources like subways. Additionally, ensuring the lab floor could support the weight of the MuRoom required a structural assessment. Specific requirements, such as grounding the floor, were also addressed before installation. The correct equipment was purchased to minimize electromagnetic interference, while also providing flexibility for multidisciplinary research and diverse applications. Additionally, the logistics of transporting and installing the lab equipment within the building presented challenges. These were addressed through modular setups, adaptable lab configurations, and careful planning to ensure seamless delivery and installation. 

Q: How does the MuRoom’s magnetically shielded design enhance research capabilities compared to conventional lab environments?

A: The MuRoom significantly reduces ambient magnetic noise, enabling ultra-sensitive experiments (pT range) that would be impossible in standard labs. This creates an optimal environment for precise measurements in magnetism, enhancing research accuracy and reliability.

The University of Glasgow’s new magnetism lab is advancing MMG sensor technology, paving the way for wearable medical devices that enable continuous heart monitoring and precise prosthetic control. Image: University of Glasgow

Q: What measures were taken to ensure the lab remains adaptable to future technological advancements and evolving research needs?

A: The lab features a modular design, allowing researchers to reconfigure spaces as new requirements emerge. Infrastructure supports future instrumentation upgrades and expanded research applications. 

Q: Given the rapid advancements in biomedical sensing and magnetism research, how is the lab designed to support emerging technologies that may not yet exist? 

A: The lab includes flexible experimental setups, scalable sensor arrays, and state-of-the-art shielding to support next generation biomagnetic and quantum research. By enabling precise testing and accurate measurement of results, it facilitates breakthroughs in emerging technologies as they evolve. 

Q: What infrastructure or modular design elements were incorporated to allow for future upgrades or expansion?

A: The facility features practical modular equipment designed for adaptability, allowing researchers to easily integrate new tools and reconfigure experimental setups as research needs evolve.

Q: Can you discuss how this lab will facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration and what role that played in the design process?

A: The lab fosters collaboration between researchers, teaching staff, and industry partners by providing shared workspaces and integrated experimental facilities designed to support cross-disciplinary innovation. The needs of all users were carefully considered throughout the design process to ensure the final lab met the requirements of all parties. 

Q: How does this new facility enhance the University of Glasgow’s position as a leader in medical magnetics research?

A: It strengthens the university’s leadership in research by offering cutting-edge infrastructure and enabling advancements in healthcare, neuroscience, wearable technology, and many other fields. Having this facility ensures researchers and industry experts have access to specialised equipment that supports precise testing and experimentation, driving further innovation. 

Q: What role will the magnetism lab play in attracting research funding, industry partnerships, and new talent to the university?

A: The facility enhances the university’s ability to secure research grants, forge industry partnerships, and attract leading researchers by providing world-class capabilities in magnetism and biomedical sensing.

Q: What are the long-term academic and commercial goals for the lab, and how do you see it evolving over the next decade?

A: The lab aims to drive breakthroughs in biomagnetism, quantum sensing, and research while fostering spinout companies and industry collaborations. Over the next decade, it is expected to expand its capabilities, attract further investment, and play a key role in advancing magnetic sensing technologies.