First Director of Imperial’s Institute for Shock Physics appointed

First Director of Imperial's Institute for Shock Physics appointed. Professor Steve Rose takes on new role %0A " - By Danielle Reeves - Thursday 12 February 2009 Professor Steve Rose from Imperial's Department of Physics has been appointed the first Director of the College's Institute for Shock Physics. The £10 million research institute is dedicated to studying the fundamental science behind shock waves, high velocity collisions and extremes of pressure and heat. Analysing the effect of shock waves on materials is important for a number of scientific subjects, including the effect of meteorite impacts on planets, spacecraft and satellites, and in understanding the high pressure conditions that occur at the core of planets. Understanding more about the science of shock waves could help scientists predict the results of meteor strikes on the Earth, and on spacecraft Professor Rose takes up the Director's post having served as the Institute's interim Director since it was established in March last year. It is funded in part by the Atomic Weapons Establishment, although no defence research will be carried out at the Institute. Professor Rose's first task as Director is to oversee the appointment of three new academics - a professor and two lecturers - to the Institute, as well as the appointment of three postdoctoral research assistants.