Professor Rob Thomson is the Photonics Lead for the MicroTex Hub, bringing internationally recognised expertise in photonics, fibre-optic technologies, and laser-based medical innovation. His research focuses on harnessing the power of light to develop the next generation of minimally invasive medical devices, helping to improve how diseases are diagnosed, monitored, and treated.
Throughout his career, Rob has aimed to translate cutting-edge photonics into technologies with real clinical impact. At MicroTex, he leads the development of advanced optical technologies that support the Hub’s vision of transforming targeted drug delivery and precision medicine.
Background
Rob is Professor of Photonics at Heriot-Watt University, where his research spans clinical photonics, laser manufacturing, and advanced optical instrumentation. His work has focused on developing innovative fibre-optic technologies capable of imaging tissues with unprecedented resolution, alongside light-based therapies that enable clinicians to treat infections and remove diseased tissue with exceptional precision.
His research also explores new photonic methods for analysing tissues without the need for dyes or contrast agents, providing clinicians with real-time information to support diagnosis and treatment decisions.
Alongside his academic research, Rob is Academic Co-Lead of the Global Research Institute in Health and Care Technologies at Heriot-Watt University and Principal Investigator of the £6 million U-Care Programme Grant, funded through the EPSRC Transformative Healthcare Technologies for 2050 programme.
Why his work matters for MicroTex
As Photonics Lead, Rob is developing the optical technologies that underpin several of MicroTex’s innovative medical devices. His work centres on creating miniature fibre-optic probes capable of reaching deep inside the body to provide high-resolution imaging and precise light delivery through minimally invasive procedures.
These technologies include fibre-optic probes for investigating disease within the lung, multicore polymer optical fibres capable of delivering light to multiple locations simultaneously, and advanced optical end-caps that improve endomicroscopy imaging. Together, these innovations have the potential to help clinicians detect disease earlier, guide treatment more accurately, and deliver therapies with greater precision while reducing the need for invasive procedures.
By combining expertise in photonics, engineering, and healthcare, Rob’s work helps ensure that MicroTex develops technologies that are not only scientifically innovative but also capable of making a meaningful difference to patient care.