January 2010: David Wagg & Simon Neild

David Wagg & Simon Neild

Professor David Wagg and Dr Simon Neild are the authors of Nonlinear Vibration with Control.

David and Simon have collaborated on a wide range of projects. They have research interests on the dynamics and control of structural and mechanical engineering systems, particularly nonlinear structural dynamics. Their current research includes work on nonlinear modal analysis for vibration problems, and the dynamics and control of morphing structures. They are also working on other aspects of smart structures including active and semi-active vibration control. Most of their research includes experimental testing and, in particular they have been involved in new developments of hybrid testing such as hardware-in-the-loop and real-time dynamic substructuring. This has particularly useful applications in testing for large structures, such as bridges, and other seismically excited structures.

David Wagg

After several years spent working in construction and civil engineering David went to University College London as a mature student 1992-1995 to study Civil Engineering. After graduating, he stayed to study for his PhD on at the Centre for Nonlinear Dynamics and its Applications, also at UCL.

After finishing his PhD, in October 1998, David moved to the University of Bristol, joining the Earthquake Engineering Research Centre as a Postdoctoral researcher, working on real time dynamic substructuring. In June 2000, David was appointed as a Lecturer in Dynamics and Control in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. He was promoted to Reader in 2007 and Professor in 2009. From 2004 to 2008 David was an EPSRC Advanced Research Fellow.

Outside work, David has been a keen climber for more than 25 years.
Climbing in Scotland, both summer and winter, is a particular passion.
Although being located in Bristol is not ideal, he usually manages several trips each year. Highlights include climbing the Old Man of Hoy and a full traverse of the Cullin ridge, as well as a winter ascent of Smiths Route on Ben Nevis.

 
Simon Neild

Simon completed his MEng in Engineering Science at the University of Oxford 1994-1998. After graduating, he stayed to study for his DPhil on using nonlinear vibration techniques to detect damage in structures. In 2001, Simon joined the University of Bristol Earthquake Engineering Research Centre as a Postdoctoral researcher. In 2003, Simon was appointed as a Lecturer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. He was promoted to Senior Lecturer in 2008.
Simon has been designing and making furniture for many years, mainly out of wood but often incorporating tubular steel. He finds it particularly satisfying to using old salvaged material or wood that he has cut from logs.

Simon also enjoys walking and regularly visits the Brecon Beacons National Park.