David is a Professor of Digital Environment at the University of Manchester. He is also a member of DEFRAs air quality expert group and NERCs Science Committee.

What inspired you to co-develop the concept behind the Hub?

What truly inspired me to co-develop the Hub was recognising how environmental science is rapidly evolving and how crucial it is to stay one step ahead of emerging challenges. Over the next decade, we’ll see significant shifts in how we monitor, measure, and respond to environmental threats. By focusing on cutting-edge bioaerosol detection, we aim to provide researchers, policymakers, and communities with the tools and insights needed to make timely, evidence-based decisions. It’s about safeguarding public health and ensuring that as environmental conditions change, we’re equipped with the technology and knowledge to adapt quickly.

Which collaborative opportunities excite you the most?

What excites me most about our collaborative opportunities is the strong emphasis on data-driven methods and the chance to integrate advanced AI capabilities. Bringing together scientists, industry partners, and policymakers in one setting allows us to share insights and co-develop cutting-edge solutions that address real-world environmental and public health challenges. The interplay between diverse stakeholders, each offering unique perspectives and expertise, creates an environment where innovation can truly flourish. It’s this dynamic network of collaboration that I believe will propel our Hub’s work to the forefront of bio-aerosol detection technologies.

What motivated you to explore bioaerosol detection as part of your research?  

What motivated me most about exploring bioaerosol detection was the challenge of gathering and optimising data from the atmosphere to better understand a complex and ever-changing system. By focusing on bioaerosols, I saw an opportunity to uncover valuable insights into how these microscopic particles influence ecosystems, human health, and broader environmental processes. For me, it’s all about harnessing the power of advanced data collection and analysis to shed light on unseen dynamics—and ultimately using that knowledge to inform more effective decision-making and sustainable practices.

What are you most proud of in your research career?

What I’m most proud of in my research career isn’t just the scientific advancements themselves, it’s witnessing how those efforts can benefit both the environment and people’s lives. One of the greatest rewards has been guiding and seeing students and early-career researchers grow into passionate scientists who share that same drive for positive change. Watching them push the boundaries of research and go on to make tangible impacts on society is an incredible affirmation of why I do what I do