Vasileios Koutsos

Vasileios Koutsos is a Professor (Personal Chair in Soft Materials and Surfaces) at the University of Edinburgh's School of Engineering, leading the Institute for Materials and Processes. He holds a BSc in Physics from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (1992) and a PhD in Polymer Science from the University of Groningen (1997). His research focuses on soft materials, surfaces, and interfaces, with expertise in polymers, nanocomposites, adhesion, and tribology. He has pioneered studies on atomic force microscopy (AFM) applications and sustainable materials.

• Education:
• BSc Physics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (1992)
• PhD Polymer Science, University of Groningen (1997)

Research interests span soft materials science, including polymer behavior at interfaces, nanomaterials, and recycling technologies. His work integrates experimental techniques (e.g., AFM) with computational modeling to advance materials for biomedical, energy, and environmental applications. Key contributions include studies on silk cocoon mechanics, icephobic coatings, and microplastic interactions.

Recent projects highlight advancements in 3D-printed composites, nanofiber fabrication, and spinal biomechanics modeling. His research has been supported by grants from EPSRC and industry partners. Awards include Fellowships from the Institute of Physics and the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.

• Grants/Projects:
• EPSRC Core Equipment Grant for AFM facilities (£450k)
• Blade Recycling: Added-value Coatings (ACT) with GREENCOAT

Labs/Teams: Leads interdisciplinary research groups in soft materials and surfaces, collaborating internationally on materials characterization and nanotechnology.