Mr
Michael
Holliday

BSc, PhD, AFHEA

Multidisciplinary Engineering Education

Technician: Teaching (Machine Shop)

Michael Holliday Profile Picture
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Michael.holliday@sheffield.ac.uk

Full contact details

Mr Michael Holliday
Multidisciplinary Engineering Education
The Diamond
32 Leavygreave Road

Sheffield

S3 7RD

Profile

After completing my Physics undergraduate at 51²è¹Ý¶ù (UoS) I was firmly embedded in the city (and its nearby caves), so I decided to stick around. 

After an abortive career in Covid-times Ropes Access, I got a job as a Research Technician in UoS’ EEE department - housing and implementing novel sensor systems in various settings, including at Tata Steelworks - Port Talbot.
I took on a PhD continuing this work, where I implemented a variety of cameras and spectrometers for machine vision. I developed a love for designing and fabricating, creating prototype testing rigs for use in both the research lab and industrial settings.

I also got really invested in my GTA work, especially in the field of Practical Engineering Education. I worked extensively with several labs in The Diamond, achieved AFHEA accreditation, and was awarded “Highly Commendedâ€� (2nd place: always the bridesmaid) in four consecutive MEE awards. 

I am now the Teaching Technician in the Machine Shop, where I teach first year undergraduate engineers the basics of manual lathe operations - providing context to real-world manufacturing, and aiding their design work. I also work with the Co-curricular teams, and other enthusiastic students, to develop their machining skills further.

Qualifications

Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Association (AFHEA)

Research interests
  • Implementation of machine vision and spectroscopy in heavy industry
  • Cave & Karst Science, Speleology, and related disciplines
Research group
  • PhD candidate in the Sensor Systems Group

Teaching interests
  • Practical Engineering Education
  • Design and Manufacturing 
Teaching activities
  • First Year Machine Shop sessions 
    • Part of several Engineering Courses