Alex Walton

Dr. Alex Walton is a Senior Lecturer in Materials Chemistry at The University of Manchester, part of the School of Chemistry. His research focuses on understanding surface chemistry and catalytic processes using advanced characterization techniques like Near-Ambient Pressure X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (NAP-XPS). He leads the NAP-XPS facility at Manchester, which enables real-time analysis of surface reactions during chemical processes.

Walton holds an MSci in Physics from Durham University (2005) and a PhD from the University of Leeds (School of Physics and Astronomy). His postdoctoral work included positions at the University of Leeds and Aarhus University before joining Manchester as a Research Fellow in 2015. His current research emphasizes rational design of catalytic materials by linking atomic-scale surface structure to functionality.

Key themes include heterogeneous catalysis, electrochemistry, and 2D materials. He has secured grants such as the 2017 equipment grant for in situ electrochemical XPS. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in clean energy and sustainable materials. Collaborations span nanotechnology, energy storage, and advanced materials characterization.