Matthew Lawrence Costen

Matthew Lawrence Costen is a Professor at Heriot-Watt University's School of Engineering & Physical Sciences, affiliated with the Institute of Chemical Sciences. His research focuses on molecular collision dynamics, stereodynamics, and gas-liquid interface interactions. Collaborating with Prof Ken McKendrick, he employs advanced laser spectroscopy techniques like velocity-map imaging and polarization spectroscopy to study energy transfer and reaction mechanisms. Key areas include roaming reactions, rotational energy transfer, and surface reactivity.

Recent work explores reactive uptake mechanisms at liquid surfaces using inelastic scattering analysis, as well as chain-length effects in ionic liquids. He has presented at international conferences on topics such as NO-Ar scattering dynamics and OH radical behavior at gas-liquid interfaces. His research contributes to UN SDGs related to sustainable chemistry and environmental science.

Over 90 peer-reviewed publications and 7 datasets highlight his experimental and theoretical contributions. Ongoing projects involve developing new imaging spectrometers and collaborating with institutions globally to advance molecular dynamics understanding.