The Centre of Materials Engineering (CME) at the University of Cape Town (UCT) is committed to advancing research, education, and innovation in materials science and engineering. This document outlines CME’s mandate, strategic objectives, and governance to ensure effective collaboration and impactful research.

CME aims to:
• Advance Materials Science and Engineering: Conduct cutting-edge research to understand and innovate within the materials engineering tetrahedron, linking process, structure, property, and performance.
• Support Industry: Develop and apply materials solutions that enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of the South African materials science and manufacturing industry.
• Foster Collaboration: Promote interdisciplinary research and partnerships with academia,industry, and government to address complex materials-related challenges.
• Enhance Education: Provide high-quality education and training to develop the next generation of materials engineers and scientists in South Africa and abroad.
• Drive Innovation: Translate research findings into practical applications and technological advancements that benefit society and the environment.
• Promote Inclusivity: Attract and nurture diverse talent, ensuring equitable opportunities and representation within the field of materials engineering.

CME’s Strategic Objectives are:
• Advance Collaborative Research: Foster interdisciplinary research within UCT and with external partners to drive innovation in materials science and engineering.
• Support National Priorities: Align research with strategic national and industry needs to enhance South Africa's manufacturing competitiveness and materials performance.
• Publish High-Impact Research: Translate research outputs into high-quality publications in top-tier journals and conferences, disseminating findings to the broader scientific community and industry stakeholders.
• Attract and Develop Talent: Draw high-quality postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows from diverse backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and representation of South African and African society.
• Enhance Infrastructure: Provide state-of-the-art workspaces and research facilities to support cutting-edge research and collaboration.
• Secure Funding: Obtain financial support from government, industry, international, and university sources to sustain and expand CME’s research activities.
• Contribute to Education: Support undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, promoting awareness and interest in materials science and engineering.
• Conduct Ethical Research: Uphold high standards of ethics in research, ensuring that all activities contribute to positive societal and environmental advancements.
• Align with EBE and UCT Vision 2030: Work towards the Engineering & the Built Environment (EBE) Faculty’s vision and UCT Vision 2030, contributing to the university’s strategic goals of excellence, transformation, and sustainability.