Ross J. Donaldson

Ross J. Donaldson is an Associate Professor at Heriot-Watt University's School of Engineering & Physical Sciences and a member of the Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences. He specializes in practical implementations of quantum communication technologies, particularly satellite-based quantum key distribution (QKD) systems. He leads the design and operation of the National Quantum Communications Hub's Optical Ground Station (HOGS), focusing on overcoming challenges like daytime noise and jamming in free-space quantum links.

His research interests include quantum optical receivers, high-bandwidth quantum communication systems, and photonic device development. He has secured five Innovate-UK Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund projects to advance industry collaboration. Key achievements include a 2018 fellowship for his work on optical ground station receivers and contributions to datasets like 'Strategies for Implementing a Single-detector Polarization-encoded Quantum Key Distribution Receiver.'

• Co-investigator in the National Quantum Communications Hub
• Lead developer of the HOGS project for satellite QKD missions
• Published over 40 peer-reviewed articles and 23 datasets
• Recipient of the 2018 Practical Optical Ground Station Receivers Fellowship

Dr. Donaldson's work bridges theoretical quantum communication with practical deployment, emphasizing real-world applications and industry partnerships.