An internationally recognised leader and inventor in Sensor Systems Engineering, with 20+ years of expertise in the design, microfabrication, and system-level integration of advanced physical & gas sensors for harsh environments. Pioneered groundbreaking MEMS-based sensor technologies—from novel sensing principles and thin-film fabrication to embedded electronics and AI-driven data interpretation—with innovations adopted by global industry leaders.
A proven entrepreneur, founding two spin-out companies (Thermono Ltd., HySensor Ltd. (UK) to commercialise patented sensor IP. A strategic academic leader, adept at building cross-disciplinary research consortia and securing significant competitive funding.
Current Focus:
- Leading various international projects with Universities of Tsinghua/Peking/HUST (Wuhan)/SEU(Nanjing) on AI-aided thin-film smart sensors for hydrogen purity detection and energy system’s thermal management.
- Commercialisation of THERMONO© embedded thermal sensing and HySensor gas composition technology through Technology Licensing Agreements.
RESEARCH EXPERTISE AND CURRENT PUBLICATION AREAS:
· MEMS/NEMS Sensor Design & Fabrication: Specialisation in thin-film thermocouples, electrochemical gas sensors, and their integration into robust systems for real-world deployment (e.g., THERMONO©, Hydrogen Composition Analyser).
· In-Situ Sensing & Diagnostics: Invention of novel methodologies for in-situ monitoring of stress, strain, and temperature within operating systems (electrolysers, fuel cells, heat exchangers) to enable predictive control and health management.
· AI-Driven Sensor Data Interpretation: Development of advanced AI and machine learning techniques (image processing, deep learning) for analysing sensor-derived data to optimise system efficiency, stability, and longevity.
· Smart Sensor Systems Integration: Full-stack development of intelligent sensor systems, from hardware (sputtering, lithography) and embedded software (LabVIEW, Python) to cloud-based data analytics platforms.
· Commercialisation of Sensor Technology: Proven track record of taking sensor concepts from fundamental research through prototyping (TRL 6-7) to commercialisation via spin-outs and industry licensing.