BCAST is an academic research centre focusing on both fundamental and applied research on advanced solidification processes for metallic materials. Within Brunel University, BCAST is a self-financing special research institute (SRI). Together with 3 other SRIs, BCAST forms an important part of Brunel University’s new research initiative. BCAST is striving for international excellence on both fundamental and applied research on solidification of metallic materials. BCAST sees itself as a reliable source of both new knowledge and new solidification technologies for the metallurgical industry. It’s internationally leading position will be demonstrated in the following 3 areas: Dynamic study of structures of liquid metals and alloys Theory of solidification (including nucleation and crystal growth) under intensive forced convection New solidification processing technologies