I studied physics at the University of Strathclyde (1996-2000) before doing a PhD in semiconductor nanotechnology at the University of Cambridge (2000-2005). This research involved using quantum dots for applications in quantum information and was sponsored by Toshiba Research Europe. Following my PhD, I was employed as an Innovation Consultant by Innovia Technology (2005-2009). Working in this role I managed and delivered >£1M in R&D projects for some of the world’s biggest companies including Shell, Rolls-Royce, Boeing and Procter & Gamble. Combining my interest in sustainable energy with quantum physics, I joined Northumbria University in 2009 to work on novel semiconductor devices and in particular, solar cells. In 2013 I led the launch of Northumbria University’s physics degrees and the delivery of state-of-the-art laboratories for both teaching and research.

My areas of research focus on exploiting quantum mechanical behaviour to create optoelectronic devices that are faster, cheaper or more efficient. I currently lead two major projects: Quantum dot intermediate band solar cells: focusing on III-V technologies, we take a rigorous quantum mechanical approach to design and engineer quantum dot arrays that will significantly enhance the efficiency of concentrator and multijunction solar cells. This project involves three UK universities, two national laboratories and several multinational companies. Earth abundant thin film solar cells made from nanoparticle inks: the objectives of this project are to create thin film solar cells that are low cost, sustainable and suitable for large area deployment. We focus on creating thin film photovoltaic absorbers from solution processed nanoparticle inks. These layers have excellent light absorption properties and can be fully integrated with a conventional thin film solar cell. In addition to photovoltaics, I am generally interested in low-dimensional semiconductors and new materials for energy applications.