Richard Joseph Szabo

Richard Joseph Szabo is a Professor at the School of Mathematical & Computer Sciences, Mathematics Department of Heriot-Watt University. He holds roles as Associate Executive Dean of Research and Innovation, Industrial Engagement Lead for the Centre for Doctoral Training in Algebra, Geometry and Quantum Fields, and External Examiner for the University of Nottingham's Mathematical Physics programs. Previously, he was Co-Director of the Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences (2011-2019) and led the Research Excellence Framework 2021 efforts there.

Education: Joint Honours BSc in Mathematics & Physics from McGill University (1990), MSc and PhD in Theoretical Physics from the University of British Columbia (supervised by Gordon Semenoff). Postdoctoral research included Oxford University (1995) and the Niels Bohr Institute (1998).

Research focuses on geometrical/topological methods in quantum field theory and string theory, emphasizing K-theory, noncommutative geometry, and algebraic geometry. Active in editorial roles for Journal of Geometry & Physics and SIGMA, and co-edited the Encyclopedia of Mathematical Physics (Elsevier, 2025). Led the COST Action MP1405 'Quantum Structure of Spacetime' (2015-2019).

Recent work explores higher form symmetries, T-dualities, and generalised Ricci flows. Collaborates internationally in mathematical physics. Accepts PhD students since 1992.