As mentioned above, applications are diverse and the interest in impact dynamics is different in each case.

In ship hydrodynamics or wave impact, we mostly want to understand the forces felt by the ship's hull or the coastal structure so we can build in such a way to reduce the risk of damage.

In droplet impacts, we typically want to know more about the splash. For example, we expel clouds of droplets when we cough or sneeze. When understanding how this causes disease to spread, the size of the droplets in the cloud is a key factor in how far they travel. When the drops collide, they typically break up into smaller droplets, so understanding this helps predict the risk.

Impact dynamics formed the basis of my DPhil at the University of Oxford.

In the past, I have looked at both angled impacts - think skimming stones - and the effect of the surrounding air. The latter tends to reduce the ferocity of the impact.

My current research focusses on droplet impacts, and I have collaborators in Warwick and Oxford.

• Current research with Radu Cimpeanu (Warwick) looks at the validation of theory and direct numerical simulations in three dimensions and at arbitrary angles - a huge computational challenge! Here theory can really shine in simplifying the analysis.

• Inspired by precipitation-based dispersal of oil spills, I am very interested in impacts of liquid with different densities. This is a long-standing theoretical challenge. If the fluids are modelled as inviscid, it is unclear how Wagner theory applies!