Versarien appoints graphene whizz to newly created role

Advanced materials engineering firm Versarien appointed Cambridge University graphene expert Stephen Hodge to the company’s newly created head of research role.

Hodge joins the AIM-listed company having been a postdoctoral research associate in the Cambridge Graphene Centre at the University of Cambridge, teaching fellow in the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Graphene Technology and bye-fellow at Murray Edwards College, Cambridge.

Graphene is a semi-metal that consists of a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice and has potential applications in the inner workings of solar panels, smartphones and touch panels.

Versarien said his research interests cover the large-scale development of nanomaterial-based dispersions, inks, coatings and functional 2d and 3d architectures for incorporation into flexible electronics, sensor applications and energy storage/generation devices.

In his new role at Versarien, Hodge will take primary responsibility for overseeing research into graphene and other 2D materials, as well as development activities.

Based as an industrial visitor at the Cambridge Graphene Centre, he will additionally oversee the training of students in joint development projects.

Neill Ricketts, chief executive of Versarien, said: "I am delighted that Stephen has been appointed to the newly created role of head of research. He has been working at the forefront of graphene and other 2d materials development for some time and his leadership of our R&D function will ensure that Versarien remains at the very cutting edge of the development of 2d materials and their applications."

As of 1616 BST, Versarien’s shares were down 0.40% at 124.00p.