About
Professor Kate Sugden is Deputy Dean of the School of Engineering & Applied Science at Aston University, where she leads research in photonics and fibre optic technologies. She holds appointments in the Mechanical, Biomedical & Design Engineering department and directs the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies (AiPT). With industrial experience spanning ADC Pty Ltd, Oxford Fiber Optic Tools, and Indigo Photonics, she bridges academic research and commercial applications.
Education:
- BSc (Hons) Physics, University of Birmingham (1989)
- MSc (Distinction), University of St Andrews (1991)
- PhD in Fibre Bragg Grating Applications, Aston University (1996)
Her research develops novel fibre optic sensing platforms for industrial and biomedical applications, with core expertise in femtosecond laser processing, Bragg grating fabrication, and interferometric sensing. Current projects focus on miniaturized optical sensors for harsh environments, medical device monitoring, and energy systems diagnostics.
Publication analysis reveals sustained innovation in optical metrology, with recent emphasis on medical sensing applications (40% of 2018-2025 outputs), multi-parameter sensor designs (30%), and low-cost detection systems (20%). This reflects strategic alignment with industrial biotechnology and energy conversion challenges.
Honors:
- Medici Fellowship (2004)
- Chartered Physicist (CPhys)
- Member, Institution of Engineering and Technology Council (2014-2019)
She coordinates industry partnerships for student placements and has supervised 12 PhD candidates. Current grants include EPSRC funding for wearable optical biosensors and EU Horizon support for offshore energy monitoring systems.
