SPECS Conference 2026
The School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science (SPECS) Research Conference 2026 took place on Tuesday 2 June 2026 at the Spectra Building, College Lane Campus, University of Hertfordshire. The conference brought together researchers, academics, students, industry partners and professional organisations from across the UK to celebrate the breadth and impact of research across Physics, Astronomy, Mathematics, Engineering and Computer Science, while highlighting interdisciplinary collaborations and innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
SPECS Conference 2026 was the largest conference to date, attracting over 105 abstract submissions and showcasing approximately 70 research posters. The programme featured more than 30 presentations delivered across seven parallel research sessions, alongside keynote lectures, flash talks, a large poster exhibition, industry showcases and technical demonstrations within the Spectra laboratories. With more than 300 delegates in attendance, the conference provided a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange, networking and collaboration between academia, industry and the wider research community. Supported by UKRAS, the University of Hertfordshire and the Royal Society of Chemistry Particle Characterisation Interest Group (PCIG), SPECS Conference 2026 demonstrated the strength, diversity and innovation of contemporary research across the physical sciences, engineering and computing.
Inside Spectra Labs 2 - Technical Show case
Delegates had the opportunity to step inside Spectra Labs and explore more than 40 advanced laboratory facilities and research platforms. Spanning materials characterisation, advanced manufacturing, robotics, intelligent systems, simulation, aerospace, automotive, and immersive digital technologies, Spectra Labs showcased the breadth of cutting-edge research and engineering taking place across the University.
Held from 14:15 to 15:45 during the conference, this interactive session gave delegates the opportunity to visit a wide range of laboratory spaces and discover the technologies, research, and facilities that support world-leading innovation. Throughout the laboratories, application scientists, technical specialists, researchers, and industry experts demonstrated state-of-the-art equipment, discussed research capabilities, and shared insights into how these facilities are being used to address real-world engineering and scientific challenges.
KTP (Knowledge Transfer Partnership) Flash talks
Akhila Anil - Virtual Assessor for Occupational Health.
Hafiz Hassan - AI-Powered Home Care Management System.
Justin Morton - Advancing Fire Safety Through Riser Shaft Design.
Wasim Beig - Advanced Asset Tracking for EMS.
Pan Cao - Advanced mmWave 4D Radar Design for Complex Transport Monitoring.
Mengqing Huang - AI-Powered Learning Transformation for Inclusive and Secure Education.
Otis Lau - Experiencing University While Still at School. (Non KTP Project)
Scientific Committee
Awards
Panel Discussion
Showcase Partners
Sponsered by
