Andrew Downes

Dr. Andrew Downes is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Engineering at the University of Edinburgh, specializing in Mechanical Engineering and affiliated with Bioengineering research. A Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, he holds a PhD in Physics from the University of Cambridge. His research develops advanced optical techniques including Raman spectroscopy, CARS microscopy, and atomic force microscopy for biological and medical applications.

Research focuses on label-free diagnostic methods for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases using Raman spectroscopy, high-speed imaging of living cells, and nano-optical microscopy techniques.

Recent innovations include machine learning-enhanced liquid biopsy platforms for early breast cancer detection and Raman-based drug interaction analysis in cellular environments.

Awards:

• Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA)