Rob developed an interest in physics during his apprenticeship in engineering and a decade working in that industry, eventually going on to complete his Physics BSc at the University of Hertfordshire. The combination of his new fascination with lasers and some of the health risks of his previous job led him to a PhD opportunity at Hertfordshire’s Particle Instrumentation and Diagnostics research group.

What are you working on within the Hub?

My PhD project is centred around the detection and measurement of respirable fibres using the patterns produced from light scattered by those fibres. My research into these light scattering patterns hopes to provide insights into the design and testing of instrumentation for the measurement of single, high aspect ratio aerosol.

What is the impact of your research so far?

My research is developing the technology which will be incorporated into the next generation of real-time aerosol monitoring systems that can be applied to environmental monitoring and health challenges.

What has been the highlight of your research career to date?

Having the opportunity to meet and work with an array of brilliant people involved with varied and fascinating projects.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

When I can, as a lover of nature, I like to go camping or hiking around the wilderness. I also have creative interests in both music and art, mostly playing bass guitar and painting miniature figures.