Duncan Paul Hand

Professor Duncan Paul Hand is a distinguished academic at Heriot-Watt University, holding dual appointments in the School of Engineering & Physical Sciences and the Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences. He specializes in applied photonics, with expertise in laser technology and its applications across diverse sectors including aerospace, medical devices, and defense. He leads the £12M Medical Device Manufacturing Centre (MDMC) and directs a £1M project on ultra-short pulsed laser welding. His career includes roles such as Assistant Vice Principal Research and Impact, and Acting Deputy Principal (Pro-VC) Research and Impact.

Education: BSc in Physics with Electronics (University of St Andrews, 1986); PhD in Optical Fibres (University of Southampton, 1991). Professional milestones include promotions from Research Associate (1991) to Professor of Applied Photonics (2003), alongside leadership in academic administration. His research focuses on photonics-enabled manufacturing, laser material processing, and sustainable engineering solutions aligned with UN SDGs.

Research interests emphasize industrial collaborations with firms like Renishaw and Leonardo, advancing applications in medical device fabrication, optical materials, and energy-efficient technologies. Recent work includes innovations in laser welding of optical materials and stress management in bonded components.

He oversees the Pico Second Laser Machining facility and has contributed to over 398 research outputs, with datasets and activities highlighting advancements in microfluidics, anti-counterfeiting holography, and laser beam shaping.