Barry Brennan

Barry Brennan is a Staff Research Scientist at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) within the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, based in Sligo. He holds a PhD in Physics from Dublin City University (2009), specializing in surface characterization of III-V semiconductors. His research focuses on advanced materials characterization techniques such as Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF-SIMS), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy to study nanomaterials like graphene, 2D materials, and high-k dielectrics. He has held visiting positions at the National Physical Laboratory (UK) and contributed to over 80 peer-reviewed publications, addressing challenges in materials synthesis, surface functionalization, and energy storage systems.

Education: PhD in Physics (Dublin City University, 2009), specializing in surface and interface characterization of high-k dielectric materials on III-V semiconductors. Postdoctoral research at the University of Texas at Dallas (2010–2014) and the National Physical Laboratory (2014–2022). Current roles include leadership in nanomaterials research and collaboration with industry partners.

Research interests include: 1) Characterization of 2D nanomaterials (graphene, MoS2, hBN) for electronic and biomedical applications; 2) Surface cleaning and functionalization of nanomaterials for device fabrication; 3) Development of sustainable catalytic systems using Prussian blue analogues; 4) Electrochemical studies of battery materials (lithium-ion, sodium-ion); and 5) Innovations in nanocomposite drug delivery systems. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to affordable and clean energy (SDG7) and industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG9).

His recent articles explore topics like gas cluster ion beam cleaning for graphene electronics, Fenton reaction catalysis using FeCo Prussian blue analogues, and optimization of nanofiber-based drug delivery systems. Collaborative projects involve academic institutions and industrial partners in materials science and energy technology.

Labs/Teams: Active member of ATU’s research groups focused on materials characterization and nanotechnology. Previously affiliated with the National Centre of Excellence in Mass Spectrometry Imaging and the National Graphene Metrology Centre (UK).