Prof Duncan Hand, is Professor of Applied Photonics at Heriot-Watt University and brings decades of expertise in lasers, photonics, and precision manufacturing to the MicroTex Hub. With a career spanning academic research, industrial collaboration, and senior university leadership, his work focuses on developing advanced laser-based manufacturing techniques for miniature medical devices that could transform targeted drug delivery and sensing technologies.
Background
He completed a BSc in Physics at the University of St Andrews in 1986, followed by a PhD in Optical Fibre Technology at the University of Southampton in 1991. Shortly afterwards, he joined Heriot-Watt University as a Research Associate working on optical fibres and high-power laser applications. After securing a lectureship in 1997, he progressed through several academic and leadership roles before being appointed Professor of Applied Photonics in 2003.
Throughout his career, he has applied laser and photonics technologies to solve a wide range of scientific and industrial challenges—from measuring fluid flow in trees with plant biologists to manufacturing components for large marine engines. In recent years, his research has increasingly focused on medical applications, particularly the use of lasers for precision micro-scale manufacturing.
Alongside his research and teaching, he has held several senior leadership positions at Heriot-Watt University, including Deputy Principal Research and Executive Dean of Engineering and Physical Sciences.
Why his work matters for MicroTex
At MicroTex, his main focus is the manufacture of miniature medical devices using ultra-short pulsed lasers to machine metals and other materials with microscopic precision. These laser-based manufacturing methods make it possible to create highly detailed three-dimensional structures at a scale that would be extremely difficult to achieve through conventional techniques.