Projects per year
Personal profile
Expertise & Capabilities
- Mathematical modelling of dynamic systems
- Control systems design
- Padé-type approximations
- Approximate analytical solution approaches
- Simscape/Simulink modelling
- MATLAB programming
- Mathematica programming
Personal Statement
As a member of the teaching team in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, I focus on incorporating formative, active, and innovative learning strategies into my modules. My approach is informed by my own background, which includes a 1st-class MEng from the University of Strathclyde and research into applied mathematical modelling, nonlinear dynamics, and control systems design.
My interest in effective pedagogy is reflected in my Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (AFHEA) certification and my use of formative assessment to support student development. Underscoring my commitment to student support, I also hold qualifications in Applied Suicide Intervention Skills (ASIST) and Leading First Aid for Mental Health. I currently teach modules including Dynamics and Control (Level 3) and Advanced Topics in Mechanics and Dynamics (Level 5).
Research Interests
My research centres on applying mathematical modelling to solve complex problems in engineering dynamics and control systems. My PhD work introduces a new method for tackling nonlinear, coupled systems, with a focus on developing practical approaches for model-predictive control.
Teaching Interests
I currently have broad involvement in teaching and student-facing roles. As the Adviser of Studies for first-year students, I offer academic guidance and run workshops to help them transition successfully to university life and its demands.
In my Dynamics and Control module, I employ active learning strategies and problem-based tasks to help students apply theoretical concepts to engineering challenges. Across this and other contributions to teaching, I am proud to maintain an open, transparent, and respectful dialogue with students. I am a huge advocate for student-centred learning: students are at the heart of what we do, and we should continue to make their growth and development the ultimate goal of any innovations we pursue.
Education/Academic qualification
Master of Engineering, MEng, Mechanical Engineering, University Of Strathclyde
12 Sept 0015 → 25 Jun 2020
Award Date: 25 Jun 2020
Keywords
- Control
- Engineering Dynamics
- Mathematical Modelling
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Collaborations and top research areas from the last five years
Projects
- 1 Active
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EGCF: Standardised MAE Exam Guidelines and Checker Form Implementation
Saleem, U. (Project Lead), Johnston, D. (Academic), Ahmad, B. (Academic) & Houston, G. (Academic)
1/06/24 → …
Project: Non-funded project
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Application of the ADAP method to model-based control of the FutureForge manipulator
Johnston, D. & Cartmell, M. P., 24 Nov 2025, In: Journal of Sound and Vibration. 617, 16 p., 119302.Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
Open AccessFile12 Downloads (Pure) -
A novel approximation method for the solution of weakly nonlinear coupled systems
Johnston, D. & Cartmell, M., 30 Sept 2023, In: Nonlinear Dynamics. 111, 17, p. 16271-16292 22 p.Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
Open AccessFile1 Citation (Scopus)49 Downloads (Pure)
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Reflections on Reflect: Using MS Reflect to check in on students throughout their journeys in higher education
Johnston, D. (Speaker) & Henderson, E. (Contributor)
3 Jul 2025Activity: Talk or Presentation › Oral presentation
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Maximising Student Feedback Impact: an AI-driven textual analysis tool
Johnston, D. (Speaker), Henderson, E. (Contributor) & Triantafyllou, C. (Contributor)
19 Jun 2025Activity: Talk or Presentation › Invited talk