David Barton

Professor David Barton is affiliated with the School of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Leeds. His career spans structural analysis, composite materials, and tribology in automotive and biomedical applications.

Education:

• BSc in Mechanical Engineering, University of Bristol (1974)
• MSc in Applied Mechanics, University of Manchester (1978)
• PhD in Composite Materials, University of Manchester (1981)

Research Interests:

• Finite element analysis
• Impact mechanics
• Polymers and composites
• Tribological interfaces in automotive and medical engineering
• Crashworthiness of vehicles
• Durability assessment
• Automotive braking systems (disc brake squeal, coated lightweight rotors, wear emissions)

Scientific Awards:

• Chair in Solid Mechanics (1999)
• Fellow - Institution of Mechanical Engineers (FIMechE)
• Fellow - Institute of Physics (FInstP)
• Fellow - Higher Education Academy (FHEA)

Advising and Leadership: He has supervised postgraduate researchers including Fabian Limmer, Ishmaeel Ghouri, and Chuan He. He served as Pro-Dean for Learning and Teaching (2004–06) and Head of School of Mechanical Engineering (2006–16). His teaching focuses on design/manufacture and solid mechanics for product designers.

Labs and Teams: He is associated with the Institute of Design, Robotics and Manufacturing, Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, and Energy efficient aerospace and automotive structures research group.