Smiths Detection’s strategic partnership with the University of Exeter continues to deliver impactful research that supports the development of next-generation training tools for aviation security screeners.
Launched in 2024, the partnership is part of a wider collaboration between Smiths Group and the University of Exeter that aims to develop skills and technologies in support of a greener, safer and fairer world. At the centre of the work is a joint commitment to innovation that focuses on human performance in real-world operational settings.
Researchers from the university’s Virtual Immersive Training and Learning (VITAL) group are working closely with Smiths Detection’s Training Team to better understand how screeners search for threats in X-ray images. The research focuses on cognitive performance and behaviour, particularly how training can be tailored to help security staff identify novel and emerging threats. It also explores how Artificial Intelligence is likely to influence visual search and decision-making in the future.
At this year’s Passenger Terminal Expo in Madrid, University of Exeter PhD student Amy Gear undertook a pilot study with the wider aviation community acting as her participants. The project, developed in partnership with Smiths Detection, is creating new ways of assessing potential screener performance before training even begins.
By using a series of psychometric and cognitive tests, the research aims to identify which candidates are most likely to succeed in training and which may require additional support. These early assessments could ultimately help security teams recruit more effectively, reduce training time and support a stronger, more confident workforce.
Dr Callum O’Malley from the VITAL group explained, “X-ray screeners play a vital role in protecting the travelling public. By understanding the core skills that make someone well suited to this role, we can help build a safer and more efficient screening process.”
Amy Gear added, “Our aim is to design a personalised approach to training that reflects each individual's strengths and their areas of development. Working with Smiths Detection gives us a clear view of the operational challenges and how our research can make a difference.”
The partnership between Smiths Detection and the University of Exeter is not only delivering research outcomes but also creating opportunities for student experience and talent development. As part of the wider agreement, students are gaining hands-on industry experience, while opportunities for staff on both sides are helping to strengthen collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Dr Leanne Simpson, Director of Training & Documentation at Smiths Detection, said, “Our collaboration with the University of Exeter represents a vital step forward in integrating behavioural science into security training. By grounding our approach in evidence-based threat detection and human performance research, we’re equipping frontline personnel with the cognitive tools they need to identify evolving threats more effectively. This partnership ensures our training remains not only current but also scientifically robust—supporting the highest standards of global security.”
As the research progresses, both teams are already looking ahead. The findings from the first phase are laying the groundwork for future studies that will explore more complex cognitive and behavioural factors. The shared ambition remains the same: to improve screener performance and contribute to safer air travel worldwide.
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About Smiths Detection
Smiths Detection, a division of Smiths Group, is a global leader in inspection and detection technologies across air transport, ports and borders, defence and urban security. With more than 70 years of experience, Smiths Detection helps to protect society from the threats posed by explosives, weapons, contraband, toxic chemicals and narcotics. Visit: www.smithsdetection.com
About the University of Exeter’s VITAL Research Group
The Virtual Immersive Training and Learning (VITAL) group is based at the University of Exeter and led by Professors Sam Vine and Mark Wilson. The group explores how immersive technology can support learning and performance in complex environments. Drawing from