Created in 2018 by researchers for researchers, the UCL Mechanical Engineers Researchers' Society (MERS) is dedicated to supporting our doctoral and staff community. We aim to bridge the gap between academic research and professional application by facilitating networking with external partners and providing targeted career development.
From social gatherings to inter-departmental collaborations, our committee hosts events year-round to build a supportive environment for all PhD students and staff. At our core, MERS serves as a platform for multi-disciplinary engagement, helping to improve knowledge transfer and celebrate the research breakthroughs happening within Mechanical Engineering.
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Human Organ AtlasAn international team led by UCL Mechanical Engineering has launched a groundbreaking, open-access 3D portal. Often described as "Google Earth for human organs," this project allows researchers to explore biological structures in unprecedented detail - from entire organs down to individual cells. Find out more: ‘Google Earth’ for human organs made available online | Faculty of Engineering. |
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Repair CaféAt UCL Mechanical Engineering, sustainability is embedded in everything we do - from research design to community operations. In collaboration with the Department and the Institute of Making, MERS actively supports and promotes the UCL Repair Café. Our researchers help triage and advise on a wide range of items, applying engineering expertise to restore treasured possessions and champion a circular economy within the university. |
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Harwell Research VisitIn collaboration with the Materials, Structure, and Manufacturing group, our researchers gain exclusive access to the Research Complex at Harwell. These visits provide hands-on insight into world-class facilities, including the Diamond Light Source (the UK’s national synchrotron) and the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source. |
Every June, our doctoral community comes together for a high-energy research showcase. This conference-style event features MSc and PhD flash talks and poster exhibitions, offering a platform to share current breakthroughs with the wider department and industry partners.
We take pride in the pivotal role our researchers play in education. The annual PGTA Awards celebrate the dedication of our teaching assistants; in 2025 alone, 25 exceptional researchers were nominated by over 90 students and staff for their commitment to the learning experience.
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Friday Feelings & SocialsA monthly social series held on the last Thursday of each month. Depending on the time of the year, these events can be themed (e.g. Halloween or Christmas) and are a fun way for researchers to relax and socialise with each other. We provide regular spaces for researchers to relax, recharge, and connect with social events held throughout the year such as film nights, group hikes, and Eurovision screenings. |
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Nowruz CelebrationNowruz is the ancient Persian New Year and Spring Festival celebrated in a variety of countries, although most famously associated with Iran. UCL MERS hosts an annual celebration for all those in the Mechanical Engineering department. Friends and family are welcome to celebrate with food and music, whilst learning a little bit about the culture through short talks, poetry reading, and dancing. |
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Employer SpotlightsWe bridge the gap between research and industry through dedicated seminars, such as our recent collaboration with Exponent Inc. These events allow early-career researchers to explore high-impact pathways in engineering and scientific consulting. |
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The Kennedy DinnerNamed in honour of our very own pioneer of engineering education Sir Alexander Blackie William Kennedy, The Kennedy Dinner is an exclusive annual gathering for UCL Mechanical Engineering's alumni, staff and students, along with specially invited guests. Along with the customary glamour and high spirits, there is a special celebration of staff and students, including a short academic prize-giving. The annual celebration is named in. |
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Engineering CupEach spring, our researchers put their teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test in the Faculty Engineering Cup. This series of "secret" strategic games challenges our ability to think on our feet and collaborate outside the lab. |
All UCL researchers in the Mechanical Engineering department automatically become a member of MERS once they join UCL. For general enquiries and partnerships please reach out via email at mers@ucl.ac.uk.
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