Computer facilities

Those who are intending to do projects with major computational elements should be aware that, while the departmental teaching system can be used for project work, priority must be given to timetabled computer based teaching. Where substantial computer resources are required, these should normally be provided by the research group hosting the project. If this is not possible, the requirements should be discussed at an early stage with the teaching systems manager.

For those who need to use the departmental teaching system for their project the machine IIB-projects is available for project work, but this is shared between all projects. If your project involves computationally intensive work you should be using the "grid engine" system to submit offline jobs which can be scheduled on appropriate machines outside of timetabled teaching periods.

For more information on computer-based projects see http://www-h.eng.cam.ac.uk/help/tpl/IIBprojectstudents.html.

Students are advised to make their own backups of computer based project work, especially when using systems other than the departmental teaching system. Those using the departmental teaching system should be aware that although files can usually be recovered from the previous night's system backups, this takes time which you may not have as deadlines approach.

Photocopying and printing

Part IIB students have a certain amount of access to departmental photocopying facilities to assist them in their research and in preparing for presentations. You will need your University card and CRsid to do this, and should use your assigned divisional photocopying job number from your supervisor.  Please contact the IT Helpdesk if you have any queries.

However, students should note that faculty work will always take precedence in the departmental print room. Students should also note that they are not allowed to use the print room for duplication (or binding!) of their final report. Students must either make two word-processing print outs or use copying facilities outside of the Department.

On a similar note, students are reminded to allow plenty of time when asking the IT Helpdesk in the DPO to assist you: your work is not necessarily a priority to them.

Workshop facilities

Each project may be allocated up to five days worth of workshop time, covering both the main and divisional workshops, at the discretion of the appropriate Head of Division.  Please discuss this with your supervisor if appropriate.

Bursaries

The James Dyson Foundation Undergraduate Bursaries are targeted at projects that focus on problem solving and design, and which offer excellent opportunities for outreach work in schools.  The intention is to award six or more bursaries per year.  Each bursary includes funding for the project and a payment to the student.