Anthony R West

Professor Anthony R West is Professor of Electroceramics and Solid State Chemistry within the School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering at the University of Sheffield. He also served as Head of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering from 1999 to 2007.

Education & Academic Career

• BSc Chemistry, University College Swansea
• PhD (Silicate Chemistry), University of Aberdeen (1971)
• DSc, University of Aberdeen (1984)
• Lecturer in Chemistry, University of Aberdeen (1971)
• Professor of Chemistry, University of Aberdeen (1989)
• Head of Department, University of Sheffield (1999–2007)

Research Interests

Professor West’s research focuses on the synthesis and characterisation of novel oxide materials, their crystal structures, and their electrical properties. He employs impedance spectroscopy and phase-diagram studies to understand ionic and electronic conductivity in electroceramics, with applications in lithium-ion batteries, fuel cells, capacitors and sensors. Key themes include high-capacity battery cathodes exploiting oxygen-redox chemistry, solid electrolytes, relaxor ferroelectrics, and resistive-switching phenomena.

Publications & Scholarly Output

His recent work (2020–2024) highlights advances in resistive switching, redox-active oxygen in oxides, and high-permittivity dielectrics. With over 450 peer-reviewed papers and two widely-used textbooks (Solid State Chemistry and its Applications), his output continues to shape solid-state and materials chemistry.

Awards & Recognition

• John B. Goodenough Award (RSC, 2013)
• Chemical Record Lectureship (Japan, 2009)
• Griffiths Medal & Prize (IOM3, 2008)
• Epsilon de Oro Award (Spanish Society of Glass & Ceramics, 2007)
• Industrial Award in Solid State Chemistry (RSC, 1996)
• Fellowships: FRSE, FRSC, FInstP, FIMMM

Leadership & Service

He founded the Journal of Materials Chemistry, established the Materials Chemistry Division of the Royal Society of Chemistry, and served as President of the Inorganic Chemistry Division of IUPAC (2004–2007). He co-organised the inaugural Materials Chemistry (MCI) and Materials Discussion (MDI) conferences.