Graham Smith

Graham Smith is a Professor in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of St Andrews, where he leads research in electron spin resonance and millimetre wave technology. His work focuses on developing advanced magnetic resonance techniques for applications in materials science, structural biology, and medical imaging.

Education:

• BSc (Hons) in Theoretical Physics from the University of York
• MSc in Laser Physics and Optoelectronics from the University of St Andrews
• PhD in Millimetre wave instrumentation from the University of St Andrews

Professor Smith's research interests center on high magnetic field electron spin resonance, ferromagnetic resonance, and magnetic resonance force microscopy. He has developed a highly sensitive quasi-optical spectrometer that operates from 80 to 300GHz in magnetic fields up to 12T at cryogenic temperatures. This facility is now a UK EPSRC resource and part of a European network on High Field ESR Instrumentation. His work has significant applications in materials science, structural biology, and medical imaging, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to clean energy and health.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on advancing electron paramagnetic resonance techniques, with particular emphasis on distance measurements in biological systems, dynamic nuclear polarization, and novel applications in medical imaging. The research spans physics, chemistry, and interdisciplinary applications, showing increasing collaboration with biology groups.

Professor Smith currently holds over £4M in direct funding and participates in more than £11M of collaborative research programs. He serves as Principal Investigator for multiple projects including 'Supramolecular Structure Predictions Validated from Sparse Experimental Data' and 'Fast continuous flow of hyperpolarised water as a contrast agent for MRI.'

He leads the European facility for ESR and has organized major events including the tri-annual EU Summer School on Advanced EPR Techniques. His laboratory has commercialized high-field ESR technology that is now used in leading laboratories worldwide.