Assoc ProfessorRobert Johnson

Since joining University College Dublin in 2019, Robert has built an interdisciplinary research group with expertise in applying nanoelectrochemical approaches to problems in food safety, drug safety and medical diagnostics. Working closely with the UCD-Center for Food Safety, the team has received significant grant income in these areas (circa €1 million in the past three years), which is being used to develop new nano-electrochemical sensors for early pathogen detection in food production facilities, as well as rapid identification of antimicrobial resistant hospital pathogens such as Klebsiella pneumoniae. This work has attracted significant interest from stakeholders in Ireland (e.g., food production companies, food regulators), The group's applied research programs are underpinned by fundamental investigations into ion transport phenomena in nanopore systems; the outcomes of which are utilized to improve sensor performance and develop new sensing approaches. The group has particular expertise in the fabrication and surface modification of conical nanopores and carbon electrodes, as well as the finite element modelling and experimental investigation of ion transport through these modified nanopores at low electrolyte conditions.

We are always looking to recruit motivated students to join us in our research endeavours. If the above sounds of interest, do get in touch to discuss funding opportunities.