Professor Owen Thomas

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham

Scientific Background

Research Interests

Main expertise in Bioseparation Technology, Process Chromatography, Downstream Processing (DSP), Bioprocess Intensification and Process Analytical Technology (PAT) of Biopharmaceutical Products

Current interests:

DSP of Monoclonal Antibodies, Nanoplexes (plasmid DNA, mRNA; VLPs; nanoplex surrogates; protein nanoparticles) and Magnetosomes.
Primary capture technology – Bioprocess scale magnetic separations (High-gradient Magnetic Fishing, HGMF; Continuous Magnetic Extraction, CME; Magnetically Enhanced Density Separation, MEDS); Expanded Bed Adsorption (EBA).
Continuous Chromatography – Single-column travelling cooling and heating zone reactor systems.
Next-Generation Adsorbents (Multifunctional, Multilayered and ‘Smart’).
High-throughput and in-line PAT – Capillary Circular Dichroism (CD) and Intrinsic Fluorescence.

Scientific Inspiration

The late great Professor Peter Dunnill (Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London) for knowing exactly what the bioindustry sector needs long before it itself does.

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Detail-oriented, ‘supportive/understanding/guiding’ and collaborative.

Provision of Training

I prefer to take responsibility for your technical training at first, leading to more independence later.

Progression Monitoring and Management

I shall set out my expectations of your progression on a weekly/monthly basis. If these progression criteria aren’t met we shall always discuss a plan of action together. I have high expectations and I will encourage/guide you to develop these of yourself so that you can attain your full potential.

Communication

I may email my team/PhD students at all hours of the day and night, but do not expect you to do the same. I do however, expect that you keep up with my/ team communications and manage your work/life balance. I am happy to discuss any issues that are impacting your ability to fulfil your potential and/or my/our expectations.

In a group meeting

At least once per fortnight

In year 1 of PhD study

At least once per week

In year 2 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

In year 3 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

The meetings will be a mixture of face to face, via video chat or telephone and I am usually contactable for an instant response (if required) on every working day.

Working Pattern

The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings), I expect students to manage their own time.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 1 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.

MIBTP Project Details

Co-supervisor on a project with Dr Richard Moakes.