Dr McLaren is a materials scientist by background, who served as Vice Dean in the Faculty of Engineering from 2013 to 2021. One of his other activities is as Convenor of the Glasgow and Strathclyde Military Education Committee, which supports students considering a career in the Armed Forces. He also supports military reservists and veterans as part of the University’s commitments under the Armed Forces Covenant.

Dr McLaren’s first type of projects are offered in collaboration with the Defence Standardisation (DefStan) department of the Ministry of Defence (MOD). Students work with MOD staff to examine opportunities to replace military standards and specifications with civilian alternatives. This is desirable as it reduces costs and improves inter-operability with defence allies, e.g. NATO partners. Each student is partnered with a subject specialist from the MOD office in Glasgow, who helps supervise the project. These projects will appeal to students with an interest in the military and will use engineering judgement to solve real problems with a professional partner organisation. There will be a maximum of FOUR projects available in this area, due to the capacity of the MOD partner.

In addition to the defence related projects above, Dr McLaren has an interest in sports engineering, particularly in the area of ropes for sailing and climbing and climbing equipment. In the past, students have carried out experimental projects to test the strength and reliability of climbing equipment when exposed to damage and wear. It is likely that a small number of this type of experimental project will be available. Students with practical experience of “trad” climbing would be especially suited to this type of project.

Dr McLaren also has extensive experience supervising industry-related projects. Students who have carried out an internship with a company may consider whether a project related to that company's business could be developed for their Individual Project. Students wishing to explore this possibility should email Dr McLaren as soon as possible.