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Mr Michael Heeney

Lecturer in Computer Science

Michael Heeney

  • School Faculty of Science and Technology

  • Department Computer Science

  • Location London

Research activities

As part of my PhD research, I develop and integrate firmware and software components within a digital twin architecture that bridges physical and virtual robotic systems. This work focuses on creating educational platforms that support students in learning robotics and programming through realistic, interactive digital representations.

My broader research interests include memory safety, embedded systems, and hardware optimisation, with a particular focus on ARM and RISC-V architectures. I am interested in improving the reliability, security, and performance of software-hardware systems through architecture-aware design and optimisation techniques.


Current Teaching

Year 1 - Systems and Architecture (Module Leader)

Year 2 - Object Orientated Programming

Year 3 - Projects (Unix and Kernel Software Development, Optimisation, IoT and Microcontroller Development)


Biography

I am the Module Leader for Systems and Architecture in Year 1 Computer Science. The module develops a foundational understanding of computer architecture, from digital logic and data representation to processors and memory hierarchies, equipping students with the conceptual tools needed for later study in programming, operating systems, compilers, and performance optimisation.

I am the National Organiser for Eurobot – An autonomous robotics competition. This aims to foster and develop the interest in robotics in young people on an international scale.

For industrial experience, I have worked as a CPU Architect providing software for various architectures for over a decade. Additionally, I have written firmware for the automotive industry for various Software Defined Vehicle projects. 

Publications