James Bailey

Research Fellow

Emma MacPherson Terahertz Research Group [Link]

P4.30, Department of Physics, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.

James.Bailey@Warwick.ac.ukLink opens in a new window

Background

I received my PhD from the University of Nottingham in 2014 on polymer photonic structure. Continuing my interests in optics and soft-matter materials, I joined the liquid crystal group in Manchester. This research group transitioned to the University of Leeds in 2015 where I continued to research dynamic optics lenses. I was then a founding member of Dynamic Vision Systems, where I led the development of the first battery powered, wirelessly triggered, dynamically focusing smart contact lens prototype. In 2020 I worked for Flexenable, sharing my liquid crystal and dynamic optics expertise. I returned to academia in 2022 at the University of Nottingham, where I fabricated and demonstrated the first Quantum Cascade sound-laser (SASER). I started my current role in 2026 within the University of Warwick MacPherson THz group, where my role is to build and bridge academic and industry connections, whilst researching uses for THz in cosmetic applications.

Research

I have had a diverse career in both academia and industry with a broad range of experience. This includes; THz devices, adaptive optics, liquid crystals, soft matter physics, cryogenics, metrology and laboratory equipment development.

In my current role, we are transitioning the knowledge and experience learnt from THz biomedical investigations into cosmetic applications. This includes monitoring skin hydration, health and skin-age with respect to different topical treatments.

Teaching

I have previously designed and taught lectures/seminars on; Careers in academia and industry, first year laboratory equipment, liquid crystal device design and fabrication, adaptive optics, and clean-room design and operation.

Outreach

I have previously designed and taught lectures/seminars on; Careers in academia and industry, first year laboratory equipment, liquid crystal device design and fabrication, adaptive optics, and clean-room design and operation.

When not at work

I spend time with my 2 daughters, brew beer, maintain my home-built 3D printer and tinker with woodwork, electronics and programming.