Jim McLaughlin

Professor Jim McLaughlin CBE FREng serves as Director of the Nanotechnology and Integrated Bioengineering Centre at the University of Ulster, recognized globally for pioneering work in vital-signs wearable sensor systems and nanotechnology-based diagnostics.

His research integrates modelling, algorithm development, and machine learning to enhance healthcare sensor performance, with breakthroughs in Covid-19 lateral-flow devices and nanoparticle functionalisation driving real-world medical applications. Core expertise spans Wearable Healthcare Sensors, Nanotechnology, and Point-of-Care Diagnostics development.

Scientific Awards:

• OBE (2012) for research and economic development in Northern Ireland
• CBE (2022) for research and education
• Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering (FREng)

McLaughlin has secured over £100 million in competitive funding from EPSRC, Wellcome Trust, and the Royal Society, establishing multiple bioengineering centres of excellence through patented sensing/defibrillator electrodes and diagnostic devices. His leadership directly enables commercial translation of academic research into healthcare solutions.

The Nanotechnology and Integrated Bioengineering Centre under his direction focuses on developing next-generation diagnostic tools and sensor technologies for immediate clinical deployment.