Patrick Sears

Dr. Patrick Sears is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Surrey within the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. His work spans analytical chemistry, forensic analysis, and environmental pollutant detection, focusing on improving precision in trace contamination studies (explosives, drugs, PFAS) and novel ionization methods for mass spectrometry.

• B.Sc. and M.Sc. from University of Durham, Ph.D. from University of Hull
• Former roles at Dstl (Forensic Explosives Laboratory), Syrris, and Rhodia

Research interests include:

• Trace contamination dynamics (explosives/drugs in healthcare)
• PFAS and pesticide degradation methods
• Ambient ionization techniques (ASAP, DART, paper spray)
• Direct surface analysis systems
• Secondary ionization processes
• Forensic material speciation

Recent collaborative work emphasizes PFAS electrochemical degradation using BDD electrodes, portable MS applications, and DUID screening methods. Scientific recognition includes Royal Society of Chemistry fellowship and BMSS committee membership.

Teaching involves CHE1039, CHE2033, and CHE3055, leveraging flipped learning and SurreyLearn platform. Key publications since 2019 highlight ambient ionization advancements, electrochemical pollutant removal, and forensic detection protocols.