William Sampson

William Sampson is a Professor of Materials Modelling at the University of Manchester's Department of Materials Engineering. He holds a BSc (Hons) and PhD in Paper Science from UMIST (now part of the University of Manchester). His research focuses on the structure and properties of heterogeneous materials, particularly fibrous systems like paper, composites, and electrospun polymers. Key areas include statistical geometry, probabilistic modeling of material assembly, and applications in tissue engineering, fuel cells, and magneto-rheological fluids.

His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing sustainable materials and resource efficiency. Sampson is a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (FIMMM) and chairs professional committees like the Pulp and Paper Fundamental Research Symposium. He collaborates on projects such as the Centre for Robotics and Artificial Intelligence and RE3 (Rethinking Resources and Recycling), advancing interdisciplinary research.

Recent research trends include nanocomposite mechanics, graphene-based materials, and macromolecular assembly. Sampson supervises over 14 postgraduate researchers, focusing on topics like interlaminar fracture toughness and biodegradable composites. His group, Polymers Composites and Carbon, explores cutting-edge materials for industrial and environmental applications.