Martin R. S. McCoustra

Prof Martin R. S. McCoustra is a Professor at Heriot-Watt University's School of Engineering & Physical Sciences, leading research in surface science, astrochemistry, and plasma interactions. He holds a DSc from Heriot-Watt University (2003), with prior roles as Chair in Chemical Physics at the University of Nottingham (2006–2006). His work bridges chemistry, physics, and engineering, focusing on molecular processes in astrophysical environments and energy dissipation on surfaces.

Research Interests:

• Lab astrochemistry of surfaces/solids
• Spontelectrics (novel dipole-oriented materials)
• Plasma-surface interactions for surface analysis
• Energy redistribution at metal surfaces

Awards:

• 3-time winner of the I'm a Scientist Molecule Zone competition (2019, 2021, 2023)

Key Activities:

• Collaborates with FELIX Light Source and Danish spontelectric researchers
• Leads the COMPASS project on polymer recycling