Academic Director, Begbroke Science Park, University of Oxford

Professor Peter Dobson is the Academic Director of Begbroke Science Park at the University of Oxford. After a career as a lecturer in Physics at Imperial College and Senior Principal Scientist at Philips Research laboratories he was appointed to a University Lectureship and College Fellowship at the Queen's College Oxford in 1988 and a Professorship in 1996.

At the University of Oxford his research moved into the areas of nanoparticles, nanostructures, optoelectronics and biosensors. In 1999 he spun-off a company, now called Oxonica plc, that specialized in making nanoparticles for a wide range of applications, ranging from sunscreens to fuel additive catalysts and bio-labels. In 2000, with colleagues in Chemistry and Engineering, he spun-off Oxford Biosensors Ltd that made a hand-held device based on enzyme-functionalised microelectrode arrays.

He was appointed to his present position in August 2002 and has the responsibility of setting up new research institutes that combine University activities with company R&D, and leading a team that facilitates the rapid transfer of technology and knowledge. This has led to him being in demand internationally to advise on Knowledge Transfer. He consults widely and advises several corporate and national organisations on nanotechnology. His research interests are very broad, covering most aspects of nanotechnology, and embracing biotechnology, environmental technology, energy, materials science, especially the applications to medicine. He is also currently (2009-2012) the Strategic Advisor on Nanotechnology to the Research Councils in the UK.