Recognising the Joint Endeavours of Prof Simon Holder, Dr Aaron Hillier, and Colleagues from the Division of Natural Sciences
The Kent Biosensors group represents a cross-disciplinary collaborative network that has developed a proven track record in research with impact in basic, clinical and industry led research that has had significant public engagement. The group was formed in 2015 by the nominees for this award; Prof John Batchelor (Engineering), Dr Campbell Gourlay (Biosciences), Prof Simon Holder (Chemistry), Dr Viktorija Makarovaite (Engineering) and Dr Aaron Hillier (Chemistry). The biosensors team represents an assembly of unique skills, and its success highlights the power of multi-disciplinary research that has developed an entirely new area of research at Kent. The group has published a number of peer reviewed journal articles together; obtained a number of grants from the BBSRC, EPSRC, DSTL, Kent Cancer Trust, a KTP and has developed working new relationships and attracted funding from several industry partners (Smith’s Medical, Smith and Nephew, 3i, Cairn Scientific).
Work from the group contributed to a world leading impact case in the REF2021. Given the exciting nature of this collaborative work, the group has been active in several public engagement activities, such as public lectures, talks at local schools, an exhibition instalment at the Folkstone Triennial 2017, the Canterbury festival, British Science week, Future of Energy Summit, Women in Engineering talks and outreach events, a KMTV documentary and a piece on regional BBC News. The group has also established firm links with multi-disciplinary clinical teams within the East Kent University Hospital Foundation Trust (EKHUFT) confirming that their work is directly engaged with public health issues. Current projects include the detection of microbial growth on medical implants, infection control and the development of biosensors to improve wound care. Engagement with industry collaborators can also be evidenced by the joint patent application submitted between the group members and Smiths Medical Inc. to develop a pressure sensor within tracheostomy tubing.