Ion Sucala

Professor Ion Sucala is a Personal Chair in Engineering Management and Head of Engineering at the University of Exeter, within the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences. He holds dual PhDs in Industrial Engineering from the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca and in Social Sciences from the University of Glasgow, and is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. He leads the Exeter Digital Enterprise Systems (ExDES) laboratory and is actively involved in research, teaching, and industry collaboration.

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Industrial Engineering, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca (2000–2007)
• PhD in Social Sciences, University of Glasgow (2011–2018)

Ion Sucala's research focuses on digital twinning, simulation, and optimisation of manufacturing processes, technology innovation, industrial organisation, and engineering education. His work bridges engineering and social sciences, with strong emphasis on Industry 4.0 and sustainable manufacturing. He leads the Exeter Digital Enterprise Systems (ExDES) lab, fostering interdisciplinary research and innovation.

His research projects include multiple Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) with Smart Manufacturing Ltd and collaborations with Lynch Motors and ASM Assembly Systems, focusing on digital solutions for manufacturing optimisation. These projects highlight his applied research approach and strong industry engagement.

Notable recognition includes:

• Senior Fellow of The Higher Education Academy

He supervises a diverse group of PhD and MPhil students, many funded by the China Scholarship Council, on topics including digital twins, AI in manufacturing, multi-sensor fusion, and sustainable production. He has also contributed to media coverage on KTP projects related to the manufacturing of the Covid-19 vaccine. He teaches research methodology and ethics and continues to lead strategic initiatives in engineering education and innovation at the University of Exeter.