David Alexander Gregory

Dr. David Alexander Gregory is a Lecturer in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of Sheffield, joining the institution in 2023. His research focuses on developing sensing devices and novel printing technologies for applications in process monitoring, medical diagnostics, and environmental challenges. He is also the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of PHAsT, a promising spin-off initiative focused on sustainable production of biocompatible, biodegradable polymers via bacterial fermentation.

Dr. Gregory holds a PhD in Catalytic Micromotors from the University of Sheffield (2016), an MSc in Bionanotechnology jointly offered by the University of Sheffield and Leeds University, and dual BSc degrees in Physics with Astrophysics and Cosmology from Lancaster University and Biochemistry and Music from Keele University. His interdisciplinary background enables him to bridge multiple scientific domains in his research.

His research interests span multiple cutting-edge areas including sensors and biosensors, Raman spectroscopy, additive manufacturing, 3D printing, Reactive Inkjet Printing (RIJ), biomaterials, tissue engineering, drug delivery, bioelectronics, and micromotor technology. Dr. Gregory has made significant contributions to the development of RIJ technology, designing and building custom printers while developing modifications to existing systems. His work on enzyme-powered silk microrockets gained considerable media attention and resulted in multiple high-impact publications.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on developing sustainable biomaterials, particularly polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and applying advanced manufacturing techniques to create biomedical devices. The research trends show increasing emphasis on tissue engineering applications, nerve regeneration, and the development of biodegradable polymers for medical use.

• 2023 Award via 'the Deal' for exceptional student guidance
• 2022 Award via 'the Deal' for stepping in at short notice
• 2021 Award for outstanding postdoc work
• 2016 Best poster at E-MRS Symposium
• 2013 First Prize for best Poster at Sheffield University

Dr. Gregory has secured multiple research grants totaling over £650,000, including projects from UKRI, EPSRC, and Diamond Light Source. He has supervised numerous PhD students and undergraduate researchers through SURF and SURE programs. His current research group includes PhD students Leo Fish, Faruk Abdullahi, Ewan Hicking, and Ardhika Ulfah.

He leads the Sensors and Advanced Manufacturing Research Group, which focuses on applied inkjet printing for tissue engineering, printed electronics, and 3D scaffold printing. His work on PHAsT involves upscaling bacterial fermentation processes to produce biocompatible polymers for biomedical applications, with successful 100L fermentations conducted at the University of Cambridge facilities.