James Bowbrick Smith
Academic and research departments
Institute for Sustainability, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences.About
Biography
James Bowbrick Smith is a Research Fellow in the Institute for Sustainability at the University of Surrey. His current research focuses on the life cycle assessment of nanoparticle biosynthesis and the manufacture of biopolymers. He is also a member of the ELEMENTAL Engineering Biology Mission Hub, where he collaborates with researchers from multiple institutions to enhance the environmental sustainability of metal processing through industrial biotechnology.
James is presently finalising his PhD in data-driven frameworks for materials engineering at the University of Surrey. His doctoral research explores the application of machine learning models to micro-architected materials, establishing a mapping between their topological structures and corresponding physical properties. Conducted in collaboration with Autodesk as an external research partner, this work led to the development of bespoke software tools for the analysis and optimisation of architected materials.
Prior to his current role, James contributed to research within the Multi-functional, Adaptive and Sustainable Structures (MASS) Laboratory, where he was involved in the manufacture and testing of recycled rubber composites. In 2025, he also worked with the Surrey Circular Economy Group, applying his design and fabrication expertise to develop prototype equipment, products, and exhibition materials. These outputs were showcased at the Royal Society Summer Exhibition, where the group presented their research to over 11,000 visitors.
James’ broader research interests encompass sustainable materials processing, industrial biotechnology, and data-driven design for manufacturing, with an overarching aim to advance circular and resource-efficient approaches to materials engineering.
Areas of specialism
My qualifications
Affiliations and memberships
Teaching
James Bowbrick Smith has a strong commitment to teaching and has been actively involved in the design and delivery of teaching activities within the School of Engineering at the University of Surrey for the past four years. During this time, he has developed a particular expertise in undergraduate laboratory teaching and the facilitation of practical learning environments.
Upon completing his PhD, James was awarded the Graduate Teaching Assistant Certificate in recognition of his significant contribution to teaching across a range of undergraduate modules and for his role in the co-supervision of a final-year research project. The modules he has contributed to include:
- ENG1091 – Experimental and Professional Skills
- ENG2135 – Deformation and Vibration of Structures
- ENG1107 – Materials: Properties and Performance
- ENG1064 – Design and Component Production
- ENG3163 – Individual Project
In 2025, James was awarded a Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences (FEPS) Teaching Innovation Fund grant to enhance the ENG1091 Experimental and Professional Skills module. He is currently leading this project, which aims to redesign the module to improve the student learning experience and to develop and diversify the pool of graduate teaching assistants. The outcomes of this initiative will be implemented and evaluated at the end of the current academic year.
James’s teaching philosophy centres on empowering students to become independent and reflective learners. He seeks to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and environment necessary to cultivate lifelong learning habits that extend beyond the classroom. Whether through his academic teaching or his role as an Assistant Head Coach of the University American Football Team, James is dedicated to supporting students in their personal and professional development.