David Bucknall

David Bucknall is a Professor at Heriot-Watt University's School of Engineering & Physical Sciences and a member of the Institute of Chemical Sciences. His research focuses on polymers, nanocomposites, sustainable materials, and advanced materials characterization via neutron/x-ray scattering. He co-founded the Consortium of Plastics and Sustainability (COMPASS) to address plastic's role in the environment and economy. Bucknall has held roles at institutions like the Max-Planck Institute, ISIS Neutron Facility, University of Oxford, and Georgia Tech before joining Heriot-Watt in 2015 as Chair in Materials Chemistry.

Research interests include polymer deformation/fracture, extreme environment polymers, antibacterial materials, and ecotoxicology. Notable achievements include a 2022 Best Research Paper Certificate. He actively participates in conferences, workshops, and advisory roles, such as the Royal Society Peer Review Panel.