Researcher

Regan Watts

Research Expertise:Unique blend of skills: My unique expertise lie in translating fundamental scientific research towards the commercial reality. I have a PhD in physics and was a founding member of a photonics test & measurement instrumentation company, Southern Photonics Ltd, in New Zealand. Research: I have five years experience as a professional research fellow. I have more than 70 peer-reviewed publications and have bought in more than 2M EUR in research fundinng, including grants from FP7, H2020, ESA, FWO, imec and IOF and BOF funding. Consultancy: I have performed both industrial and governmental consultancy, covering topics like respirator masks, smart lighting, energy generation and solar modelling and undersea telecommunications.

Keywords:OPTICS, TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION, PHOTONICS, HEALTH CARE INNOVATION, ENERGY POLICY, 3D PRINTING, PPE, Other technical sciences

Disciplines:Radio and sub-mm astronomy, Classical and physical optics, Lasers and quantum electronics, Nonlinear optics and spectroscopy, Photonics, optoelectronics and optical communications, Energy in buildings and built environments, Microwave and millimetre wave technology, Optical fibre communications, Optical networks and systems, Embedded systems, Microwaves, millimetre waves and THz components and circuits and systems, Photodetectors, optical sensors and solar cells, Computer aided engineering, simulation and design, Solar energy, Thermal energy, Computer integrated manufacturing, General diagnostics, Neonatology, Innovation, research and development, technological change, intellectual property rights, Innovation and technology management, Production and service management, Design research, Digital and interaction design, Product design, Occupational health and safety, Product safety

Research techniques:Research: I have more than 20 years professional experience in experimental physics and photonic systems. This includes understanding the underpinning theoretical frameworks, the technical competencies required physics and engineering laboratories, data analysis, and dissemination to the academic community. Development: I have practiced the Product Development process (planning, concept development, system level design, detail design, testing and refinement, production ramp-up) for more than 10 years, including manufacturing and and sales/marketing of technology-driven products.

Users of research expertise:* Research collaborators from within UAntwerpen: I currently collaborate with the following research groups: SPHERE, LEMP, LEH, Vaxinfectio * Research collaborators from within Belgium: I currently collaborate with UGent, imec CMST, imec IDLab, VUB/BPHOT * Industrial partners interested in the development of mouth masks * Governmental consultancy on the relationship between industry, academia and start-up companies * Start-up companies looking for advice on commercialisation strategy * Researchers looking to valorise their fundamental research in the form of a product, including support through all prototyping steps.