Robert R. Thomson

Professor Robert R. Thomson is affiliated with Heriot-Watt University in the School of Engineering & Physical Sciences and the Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences. He holds an honorary position at the Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh.

• BSc in Physics (1st Class Honours), Heriot-Watt University (2000)
• MSc in Optoelectronics and Laser Devices, University of St Andrews (2001)
• PhD in Physics, Heriot-Watt University (2006)

Thomson’s research spans photonics applications in astronomy, laser manufacturing, fundamental physics, and medicine. Key areas include photonic lanterns for quantum communication, ultrafast laser processing of optical materials, topological photonic lattices, and bronchoscopy-related biomedical sensors. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals via advanced photonic technologies.

As Principal Investigator, he secured ~£30M in funding from EPSRC, STFC, EU, Royal Society, and industry. Current roles include leading the £6.1m EPSRC Programme Grant 'U-care' (deep UV healthcare tech) and Co-Investigator roles in the £13M 'PROTEUS' project (photonic lung diagnostics) and £5.6M 'CIM-laser' initiative (laser manufacturing).

Scientific Awards

• STFC Advanced Fellowship (2010)

• EPSRC Programme Grant 'U-care' (£6.1M)
• EPSRC Interdisciplinary Research Collaboration 'PROTEUS' (£13M+)
• EPSRC Centre for Innovative Manufacturing 'CIM-laser' (£5.6M)