What is your job title, and what department do you work in?

I am the Head of Technical Operations in the Department of Physics.

Why do you think the Technician Commitment is important?

The Technician Commitment is important because it highlights and promotes the vital contribution technicians make to supporting world-class research and teaching.  One area we have focused on is encouraging researchers to appropriately recognise technical staff in research publications, either as co-authors or in the acknowledgements.
We have also worked hard to support and encourage technical staff to apply for professional registration, helping to formalise and recognise their expertise and professional standing.

What do you enjoy about being involved with the Technician Commitment?

I value the opportunity to influence how technical staff are supported and celebrated, both within the university and externally.  Having received a national honour in 2017, I understand how meaningful recognition can be. I am always particularly pleased to see colleagues acknowledged for their contributions and achievements.

What has the Technician Commitment achieved at Imperial that you are most proud of?

The Technician Commitment has played an integral role in supporting the development of technician apprenticeship schemes across the College, including in maintenance, mechanical, electronics, laboratory, and animal technical areas.

I am especially proud that we are contributing to the development of the future technical talent pipeline and investing in the next generation of skilled professionals.

Tell us something interesting you have discovered about technicians (past or present) at Imperial.

Some of our technicians play a crucial role in designing and building magnetometers that are sent into space, transmitting scientific data back to Earth. These instruments are part of major international space missions, including:

  • Solar Orbiter (launched February 2020)
  • JUICE (launched April 2023)
  • IMAP (launched September 2025)

We often hear the phrase “it’s not rocket science” — but in this case, it quite literally is.

What is your top tip for technicians who would like to progress their careers at Imperial?’

Take full advantage of the training opportunities available to broaden and strengthen your skillset. Seek out a mentor who can offer guidance and help you navigate your career journey.

You may also benefit from exploring secondments or shadowing opportunities, which can provide valuable insight and open new pathways for development.

Tell us something that people would be surprised to find out about you!

I was once the drum major of a Boys’ Brigade bagpipe band. Notable engagements included performing at Edinburgh Castle and at the Royal Albert Hall!