Ross Gillanders

Dr. Ross Gillanders is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of St Andrews' School of Physics and Astronomy, specializing in optical sensing technologies for explosive detection. His work focuses on developing conjugated polymer films for nitroaromatic molecule detection, improving sensor selectivity, and field instrumentation. Key research areas include sol-gel coatings, pesticide sensing, and biohybrid systems using honeybees for environmental monitoring.

Education: PhD in Optically-Addressed Thin Film Sensors (University of Strathclyde, 2005), BSc in Instrumentation with Applied Physics (Glasgow Caledonian University, 2001).

Research interests span explosive vapor detection, sensor arrays, and environmental applications. Recent work emphasizes thermal control of semiconductors and honeybee-based landmine detection. Over 28 publications and 9 datasets highlight contributions to sensor innovation and field deployable systems. Awards include the Converge Challenge finalist (2020) and a Scottish Wild Card EDGE (2021).

Grants include leadership in EPSRC projects like 'Building a Sensor Library' (2022-2023) and collaboration in NERC-funded 'Socially-embedded sensor development' (2022). Active in editorial roles (e.g., Crystals journal) and public engagement through workshops and media features.