Graduating this summer from Ulster University’s Doctoral College, Callum Montgomery has spent his time at Ulster University working on groundbreaking materials research with real-world impact – contributing to international efforts to cut carbon emissions in transport.
More than 5000 students will graduate from Ulster University this summer, with ten days of celebrations taking place at ceremonies in Belfast, Coleraine & Derry~Londonderry.
Cutting-edge technology with environmental benefits
At the heart of Callum’s PhD was a deceptively simple idea: make things lighter, stronger, and smarter. His research focused on developing materials that will open up new possibilities for industries ranging from marine to aerospace.
Callum’s PhD work formed part of a major UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) programme, the Strength in Places Fund (SIPF), linked to Artemis Technologies, the Belfast-based company pioneering the Artemis EF-24 Passenger electric hydrofoil passenger ferry. These vessels “fly” above the water, dramatically reducing drag and energy use – a game-changing step towards cleaner maritime travel.
By exploring how next-generation composite materials could be designed for tailored mechanical properties, Callum’s research is helping to make these high-tech vessels more efficient and resilient.
Supported to succeed: “It was the people that made the difference”
Callum’s journey to Ulster University began after studying mechanical engineering in Birmingham, before returning home for a master’s degree.
After reaching out to discuss the programme, he received a warm and enthusiastic response from Ulster University academics – something he says ultimately shaped his decision: “It was the people that made the difference,” he says. “That initial interaction and support really stood out and ultimately led me to stay on for my PhD.”
Throughout his time at Ulster, he credits his supervisors and the wider research environment for helping him thrive, both academically and personally.
He highlights the support of his supervisory team – including Dr Calvin Ralph, Dr Edward Archer and Professor Alistair McIlhagger – not just for their academic guidance, but for helping him grow both personally and professionally.
“Your supervisors are always there to keep you on the right path,” Callum says. “But they also give you the freedom to grow, to make connections and to explore opportunities.”
That balance of support and independence proved vital in helping him build confidence and carve out his own path in a highly specialised field.
“The support I got and the opportunities to work closely with industry made it such a rewarding experience.”
Industry connection was a defining feature of Callum’s PhD. Working within Northern Ireland’s advanced manufacturing ecosystem, he collaborated with partners across marine and aerospace sectors, gaining first-hand experience of how academic research feeds directly into innovation.
“Being able to work alongside companies and understand what they need was huge. It gives you a completely different perspective – you’re not just working on theory, you’re seeing how it could be used in the real world.”
A rapidly evolving field
That experience has already opened doors, positioning him for the next step in his career in a highly competitive and rapidly evolving field.
Now preparing to graduate, Callum leaves Ulster University not only with a doctoral qualification, but with a growing reputation in a field that is becoming increasingly critical to global sustainability efforts.
His message to future researchers is simple: seize every opportunity:
“Network, get involved and make connections. The possibilities are endless if you’re willing to put yourself out there.”
As industries worldwide look for smarter, cleaner solutions, graduates like Callum Montgomery are proving that innovative research, combined with strong industry partnerships, can play a vital role in building a more sustainable future.
