John Whittaker

Background

About John Whittaker

John's career is characterized by his extensive experience and leadership in the analytical industry, particularly in electron microscopy and analysis applications. John is a chartered engineer (CEng) with 30 years of experience. He has held various roles in service and engineering management capacities. His expertise lies in working on specialized projects for electron microscopy and analysis in semiconductor, nuclear, and biological facilities.Currently, John leads an industrial team of applied materials specialists. The team's focus areas includes; materials characterization, energy storage, materials deposition, coatings, and composites technologies.John initially worked in the chemical industry before transitioning to the analytical sector. He managed multi-talented teams of engineering and application specialists, eventually progressing into engineering and project management roles.In 2014, John joined The University of Manchester as the Technical Services head for Graphene@Manchester. He played a crucial role in developing and implementing cleanrooms and laboratory facilities for the National Graphene Institute (NGI). Currently, John serves as the Engineering Director for the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC). His responsibilities include overseeing all engineering matters for the centre, with a focus on expansion and project delivery with industry and SMEs.The University of Manchester is a global leader in graphene research. It houses over 370 professionals working across various disciplines related to graphene and 2D materials.Facilities at the University. The university hosts the £61m National Graphene Institute and the £60m Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC).John has been a member of the Faculty of Science and Engineering Professional Services Leadership Team and a member of the Technical Apprenticeship Board and collaborating with the Health & Safety Executive on Nano-materials safety. John is a strong advocate of risk and compliance management, as evidenced by his NEBOSH certifications.John's appointment to the international advisory board of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in 2D Materials of Tomorrow (2DMoT CDT). The new CDT builds on the legacy of The University of Manchester’s pioneering Graphene NOWNANO CDT and is designed to shape the next generation of leaders in the fast-evolving field of 2D materials.