Strategic Engineering

Imperial Strategic Engineering Laboratory (SEL)

In the Imperial Strategic Engineering Lab (SEL), we tackle challenges related to the design, deployment, and operations of next generation engineering systems. Such systems currently accomplish vital tasks for society, for defence, energy, resource extraction, transportation, and space exploration. They are deployed and operated over a long-time horizon (i.e., +20 years), require significant investments (£100 million or more), and thus subject to high risks and uncertainty.

"Our research develops and evaluates new data-driven methods, procedures, digital processes, and computational algorithms to help designers create the systems of tomorrow, and to generate better value for society. Our goal is to develop the tools and techniques for future generation engineers, so they are ready to tackle the challenges involved with designing complex engineered systems. "

With threats stemming from climate change, terrorism, and pandemics, such systems may become highly vulnerable in decades to come. We need to change our approach to the way we design systems, to be ready to tackle such important challenges in the future.

Our work exploits the important concept of flexibility, which enables systems to adapt, reconfigure, and evolve, provide good economic performance, but also better sustainability and resilience in the long term. We develop tools to model uncertainty and analyze risks, support creativity, optimise systems operating under uncertainty, and support the decision-making process for policymakers and business leaders.