Personal statement

Daniel Johnston is completing his PhD thesis in the field of engineering dynamics and control systems.  In particular, his work so far has focused on developing a novel approach for obtaining approximate analytical solutions to coupled nonlinear systems.  A key benefit of this approach is in enhancing the accuracy of linear model predictive control techniques.  This project has been actively supported by the Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC) and Clansman Dynamics Ltd.

Mr Johnston graduated with a 1^st-class Masters in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Strathclyde in 2020.  During these undergraduate studies, his thesis looked at the application of Padé-type approximations to a range of problems including the classical Van der Pol oscillator.  He later secured funding from the Carnegie Trust Vacation Scholarship scheme to continue this area of research, this time focusing on applications of rational approximations to the Blasius boundary layer problem in fluid dynamics.

While hoping to continue an active and engaging research profile, Mr Johnston is currently focused on his role as a Teaching Assistant in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.  In this role, he is particularly interested in exploring formative assessment techniques in undergraduate modules.  Beyond this, Daniel Johnston has demonstrated a continuing commitment to enhancing student well-being and experience: achieving his Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (AFHEA) certification; and, voluntarily completing Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST).

Mr Johnston currently teaches modules on engineering dynamics and control systems in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.  Specifically, these include Engineering Mechanics 2 and Dynamics and Control (for Levels 2 and 3 respectively).