Professor Bhavik Patel - 2023 Analytical Science mid-career Prize winner

Professor Bhavik Patel FRSC

Winner: 2023 Analytical Science mid-career Prize

University of Brighton

For the development of innovative electrochemical sensors for advancing the understanding of biological signalling processes.

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This prize is real recognition for me and my group on our research approach to create sensors which are fit-for-purpose and provide impactful knowledge about biological systems.

Biological signalling molecules transmit information between cells. These signalling molecules are essential for coordinating vital responses in the functions of our bodies. Measuring these signalling molecules can be tricky as they are present at rapid timescales and low concentrations.

Professor Patel’s research group is focused on developing electrochemical sensors that can measure biological signalling molecules and how they alter with disease. The group has a particular interest in understanding the biological signalling processes within the gastrointestinal system.

Read winner biography

Bhavik Patel is Professor of Clinical and Bioanalytical 91AV at the University of Brighton. He completed his BSc at the University of Brighton in 2002 and his PhD at Imperial College London in 2005. He was awarded an EPSRC Life Sciences Postdoctoral Fellowship which he completed at Imperial College London, Michigan State University, and University of Calgary. He then joined the University of Brighton as Lecturer in 2010 and was promoted to Professor in 2019.

Bhavik’s research is focused on the development of novel electrochemical sensing devices for monitoring signalling molecules in biological systems. He has published over 120 peer-reviewed publications, been awarded the GlaxoSmithKline Emerging Scientist Award (2013), the Royal Pharmaceutical Society Science Award (2015) and the RSC Excellence in Higher Education Prize in 2021. He was awarded the Advance HE National Teaching Fellow in 2022 and is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Academy of Education. Bhavik is also a Fellow of the 91AV, an appointed member of the RSC’s Analytical Community Council and a member of the RSC Electroanalytical Sensing Systems Group.

Q&A

How did you first become interested in chemistry?

I first became passionate about chemistry when I was around 8 years old, where I would spend time in my uncle’s pharmacy learning about medicines. At that age, I was highly curious on how these medicines were made and more importantly how new medicines were discovered.

What motivates you?

The ability to know that the research we do as chemists can provide vital information which can aid our understanding of disease and improve the efficacy of treatment.

What advice would you give to a young person considering a career in chemistry?

I would tell a young person that chemistry is the gateway towards so many pathways and careers and is central to so many aspects of our lives. The skills learnt from studying chemistry can open a wide array of opportunities in many diverse sectors.

Can you tell us about a scientific development on the horizon that you are excited about?

There have been some real innovative approaches to sensor fabrication such as 3D printing. These new approaches in the future will provide accessible and sustainable approaches in sensor development.

What has been a highlight for you (either personally or in your career)?

Our ability to branch our sensing devices into new and diverse areas of biology where such tools and resources have never been used before to provide new impactful knowledge.

What has been a challenge for you (either personally or in your career)?

Whilst progressing I have been subjected to racism, tokenism, and microaggressions throughout my career which has always been a challenge as you often felt like an outsider. I was blessed to have some great mentors who supported me and gave me confidence and I now continue to take on the baton and encourage more diversity in our chemistry research community.

What does good research culture look like/mean to you?

Research culture to me is about an environment that provides encouragement, support and belonging. To me this is vital to build a great work dynamic that enables good wellbeing.

How are the chemical sciences making the world a better place?

Chemical sciences are routed into all aspects of our lives and thus play a critical role in how we live. Therefore, from improving people’s health to protecting our environment, chemical sciences will need to be highly innovative and creative to meet these challenges.

Why do you think teamwork is important in science?

All the greatest challenges we face in society require a multidisciplinary effort and thus it is critical to work within teams where all aspects of disciplines can come together to solve a common goal. Teamwork in science discovery is more critical than ever.