Centre for Metamaterial Research and Innovation
Exploring the potential of metamaterials, from fundamental science to real world application
The CMRI is a community of academic, industrial, and governmental partners that harnesses research excellence from theory to application, and enables simulation, measurement, and fabrication of metamaterials and metamaterial-based devices.
Our breadth is our strength: we are uniquely positioned to solve multi-faceted research questions and industry challenges. Our expertise spans electromagnetism (from visible and infra-red through to THz and microwave), acoustics and fluidics. The materials we work with have wide application, e.g. imaging, sensing and spectroscopy, acoustic and RF signature reduction, energy storage and harvesting.
What are metamaterials?
A metamaterial is a 3D structure with a response or function due to collective effects of their building blocks (or meta-atoms) that is not possible to achieve conventionally with any individual constituent material (UKMMN definition 2025).
The response/function of a metamaterial results from the ensemble effects of designed and engineered meta-atom elements. These can take many forms. The response or function may be electromagnetic (photonic, RF & microwave, THz etc), acoustic (audio, ultrasonic, vibrational), magnetic, mechanical/structural, thermal, or chemical.
A metasurface is a 2D version of a metamaterial where the structural elements are confined to a 2D plane.
Case studies »
Explore our case studies for examples of how metamaterials can address real-world challenges
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Study with us: Metamaterials MSc
Join the next generation of materials scientists and engineers with our MSc in Metamaterials.
Deepen your understanding of the physical principles behind advanced materials and metamaterials, and apply cutting-edge analytical and numerical methods to their design and fabrication. Tackle real-world challenges through innovative material solutions, while benefiting from Exeter’s interdisciplinary research expertise, strong industrial partnerships, and close links to the global metamaterials community.