Academic team

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Academic team

Our academic team is made up of highly qualified lecturers and professionals who all have a wealth of knowledge and experience in engineering and education. Read their profiles to learn more about their engineering background and what drew them to the Dyson Institute.

The breadth of expertise in the Dyson Institute’s academic team reflects the multi-disciplinary nature of the degree programme and brings a diverse range of talents and skills to the Institute. We have experts across various fields including mechanical engineering, electronic and electrical engineering, robotics, computer science, software engineering, mathematics, and engineering design with many years of teaching and research experience.

Prof. Kay Bond

Prof. Kay Bond

I am one of the more recent members of the Dyson Institute having joined in August 2024. I started my career in manufacturing industry as a mechanical and design engineer. I have had over three decades in engineering and academia, and my journey has led me to roles in academic leadership and university teaching at a ‘post 92’, a Russell Group and a new disruptor institution culminating in me arriving at the Dyson Institute – another disruptor HEI.  

I have had the opportunity and privilege to hone my skills and knowledge in curriculum development, enhancing academic quality and programme accreditation. My personal objective is to foster innovative engineering education, ensuring it resonates on a global scale through overseas campuses and partner institutions but, more importantly, delivers at a personal level for each student and staff member. At the core, my competencies lie in steering academic institutions toward excellence, leveraging my expertise in engineering accreditation and academic assessment.

I am committed to contributing to an organisation that values diversity, continuous improvement, and transformative education.  The Dyson Institute embodies these attributes, so it is exciting to be a part of an organisation that offers students such a unique blend of academic and industrial experience.

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Dr. Farzaneh Hafezi

Dr. Farzaneh Hafezi

My career aspirations lie at the intersection of academia and industry—a dynamic interface that I believe holds the transformative power to address real-world challenges. Academia, in particular, serves as a beacon of innovation, offering the technological insights and intellectual framework needed to propel industry forward. As a Senior Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the Dyson Institute of Engineering and Technology, I am privileged to play a role in shaping this synergy. My contributions include co-leading the development and delivery of cutting-edge curricula for our new MEng programme, as well as leading the creation of an industry-aligned programme in Engineering Systems that focuses on professional development of Dyson employees. Every step of this journey allows me to nurture talented engineers who are equipped to reshape the world through innovation.

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Gilles Mackjoo

Gilles Mackjoo

Prior to working at the Dyson Institute, I worked as an Engineering and Mathematics Lecturer at the Bedford College Group for thirteen years. While there, I had the opportunity to undertake multiple roles, including acting as the HE Course Manager. As part of my job role, I was responsible for overseeing curriculum content, assessment apparatus and general course administration. I also functioned as a Pastoral Tutor for apprentices undertaking undergraduate courses, supporting them to make consistent progress while managing their work-life balance. As part of a small team, I was also involved in the design and development of new BSc programmes in mechanical, electrical and electronic and mechatronics, in partnership with the University of Northampton.

The first thing that inspired me to come to the Dyson Institute was the goal to deliver a world class academic programme that encompasses invaluable work experience for students within Dyson. I was enthused by the opportunity to become part of a team that were collaborating to set-up a degree programme, one that would be distinctly different to traditional university degrees. In addition, Dyson itself is an innovative and forward-thinking company and I strongly believe that the degree apprenticeship at the Dyson Institute provides students with a tremendous opportunity to gain invaluable professional experience, as well as academic excellence. The beauty of this model is that students can apply their learning immediately through workplace rotations during term and group projects during the summer. The opportunity for students to develop themselves both professionally and personally is key to forming the next generation of engineers… I wish I had had the same experience in my first degree.

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Dr. Jaejoon Lee

Dr. Jaejoon Lee

I am Senior Lecturer in Software Engineering at the Dyson Institute of Engineering and Technology from February 2025.Before coming to DIET, I was Associate Professor in the School of Computing Sciences at University of East Anglia and Lecturer at Lancaster University. I also worked as Scientist and Project Manager at Fraunhofer Institute for Experimental Software Engineering (IESE) in Kaiserslautern, Germany, and as Associate Researcher at the R&D Centre of LG Electronics in South Korea.

I hold a Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering, an MS in Computer and Communications Engineering, both from POSTECH in South Korea, and a BS in Mathematics from Sogang University in South Korea.
My main research area is software product line engineering and software architecture in the context of IoT and digital health.

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Dr. James Wilson

Dr. James Wilson

After completing my PhD in 2019 at the University of York, where I focused on Intelligent Systems and specifically on hormone-inspired techniques for behavioural adaptation in swarms of robots, I joined Deloitte as a Machine Learning consultant in the finance sector. During my time at Deloitte, I was seconded to various financial institutions, optimizing and improving their practices through the design and deployment of data science solutions.

In 2021, I returned to academia as a Research Associate at the University of Bristol. There, I began investigating Trustworthiness in Robotic Swarm systems, developing techniques to enable human operators to understand, interact with, and control multi-agent systems while preserving the innate decentralization and adaptive qualities of Robot Swarms.

Shortly thereafter, I took up a position as a Lecturer at the Dyson Institute, where my teaching focuses on Control and Robotics. I continue to conduct research in Trustworthiness and multi-agency, integrating my findings into my teaching content.

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Dr Javad Taghipour

Dr Javad Taghipour

I am a Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the Dyson Institute of Engineering and Technology. I hold a BSc (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering–Thermofluids from Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, an MSc in Mechanical Engineering–Applied Mechanics from Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), and a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Swansea University, UK. I am a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA).

My teaching philosophy emphasizes a blend of diverse, student-centered methods designed to maximize engagement, understanding, and practical competence. The Institute’s commitment to providing undergraduates with exceptional hands-on experience, supported by state-of-the-art teaching facilities and laboratories, strongly aligns with my educational values and approach.

I am particularly drawn to the Dyson Institute’s pioneering mission to re-engineer engineering higher education within an integrated academic-industrial setting. I am excited by the prospect of contributing to the growth of such a unique institution—one that not only advances engineering education but also sets a new standard for what a higher institute in engineering can achieve. As an ambitious and rapidly growing organization, the Dyson Institute offers the ideal environment for me to combine my passion for teaching, research, and academic leadership, and to help shape its trajectory towards becoming a world-leading university.

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Dr. Kayode Popoola

Dr. Kayode Popoola

I am a highly motivated and experienced lecturer with a strong background in teaching and research, currently serving as a Lecturer in Embedded Systems in the Software Engineering team at the Dyson Institute of Engineering and Technology (DIET) since August 2024.

My interest in the Dyson Institute stems from its unique, integrated approach to engineering education and practical application. The Institute's commitment to combining rigorous academic learning with hands-on, real-world project work deeply resonates with my own philosophy of fostering practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. I am particularly drawn to the opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking environment that nurtures innovation, problem-solving, and the development of highly capable engineers ready to tackle complex challenges.

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Dr. Manajit Chakraborty

Dr. Manajit Chakraborty

Of the multiple factors that led to me joining the Dyson Institute, the strongest reason was my innate yearning to be part of an alternative higher education system that not only imparts the requisite knowledge but also provides a conducive environment for real-world application. I believe this is profoundly missing in the traditional setup of current engineering institutions. On my visit to the Institute, I was overwhelmed by the uniqueness of the model which treated students as partners. The Institute takes pride in what they do and the care that goes into the support and development of undergraduates. As many of my dearest colleagues have pointed out, I wish I had the privilege to be an undergraduate at such an institution during my time.

There are very few companies that stress innovation as much as Dyson does. And I strongly believe that the culture the Dyson Institute imbibes in their students, not only makes them successful engineers but excellent and resolute human beings keen to change the world for the better. As an academic and researcher, I wanted to be part of this journey and enhance the Institute’s reputation as a world-class research and educational institution.

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Dr. Mehdi Biroun

Dr. Mehdi Biroun

Holding a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Northumbria University, I joined the Dyson Institute as a lecturer of thermofluids in August 2022. Before joining the Dyson Institute, I was a research fellow at University College London (UCL), working on Systems-Based Methods for Innovation. I have published more than ten papers in international journals and peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts in more than five journals. Recently I have been recognised as a "Global Talent" by the Royal Academy of Engineering.

Dyson Institute is a very young yet ambitious institution. It gives me great pleasure to be a member of the academic team and contribute to the Institute's development. Since joining Dyson Institute, I have been involved in different committees supporting academic program development. I believe such a unique experience is a great chance for my personal development, which can seldom be offered in other higher educational universities.

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Dr. Mojdeh Mardani

Dr. Mojdeh Mardani

I joined the Dyson Institute in February 2022 as a Senior Lecturer in Electronics, while also serving as the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Lead and the Learning and Teaching Lead for Staff Development. In these roles, I provide guidance and expertise in refining and enhancing the institution’s teaching and learning strategy. With over 17 years of experience teaching Electronics and Electrical Engineering courses at universities in the US, I bring a diverse pedagogical background across multiple instructional modalities.


As a proactive and dedicated educator, I am driven by an unwavering passion for teaching, mentoring, and fostering student engagement. I am deeply committed to supporting students from all backgrounds, particularly through efforts to empower underrepresented populations, including women and neurodivergent individuals. As a professionally trained academic mentor and advisor, I am well-versed in student success strategies, recruitment, outreach, and retention, which enables me to guide learners effectively throughout their academic journeys. My dedication to excellence has been recognized through numerous accolades, including Outstanding Faculty Awards, recognition for Excellence in Academic Advising, Outstanding Student Organization Faculty Advisor, and a Research Achievement Award.

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Dr. Muhammad Ikhlaq

Dr. Muhammad Ikhlaq

In 2023, I joined the Dyson Institute as a Lecturer of Thermofluids. Prior to that, I was working as a research associate in Dyson’s Future Power System Lab and was working on thermal management of the new generation of Dyson’s Digital Motor. I have published more than 15 peer-reviewed journal articles along with more than 5 conference presentations and one US patent. I have been endorsed as a Global Talent by the Royal Academy of Engineering.

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Dr. Muhammad Usman Ejaz

Dr. Muhammad Usman Ejaz

I am a dedicated Electronic Engineering professional known for my strong blend of academic expertise and leadership. My academic journey includes teaching positions and leadership roles that have helped shape modern engineering education. Currently, I serve as a Lecturer and Stream Lead at the Dyson Institute of Engineering and Technology in the UK, where I design modules and drive curriculum development across subjects such as Analogue Systems and Electronic Circuits and Applications. As the Stream Lead for Electrical Engineering at the Dyson Institute, I lead academic activities including teaching, module development, assessment design, and research supervision. I have actively collaborated with industry partners and been involved in compliance with IET accreditation standards, ensuring the high credibility and continuous improvement of the program.

The Dyson Institute is recognized as a hub of academic excellence and innovation, where industry-aligned research meets rigorous academic standards. The institute’s strategic vision for continuous improvement, industry collaboration, and compliance with high accreditation standards makes it the ideal environment for people like me to thrive and drive progress in the field of Electrical Engineering.

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Dr. Olanrewaju Muheeb Ahmed

Dr. Olanrewaju Muheeb Ahmed

I am a committed researcher and educator with extensive expertise in electronic engineering and communication systems. I completed my PhD in Electronic Engineering at the University of York, specializing in Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication, alongside strong research interest in emerging technologies like Digital Twin, 5G & 6G networks, IoT, network security and autonomous vehicles.

Currently a Lecturer in Systems Network and IoT at the Dyson Institute of Engineering and Technology, I am involved in designing and delivering innovative teaching practices, curriculum development, and research in advanced engineering disciplines. My affiliations include a Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), and memberships in IEEE and the Nigerian Society of Engineers. I have authored multiple published works focused on vehicular networks, resource allocation, and wireless communication systems.

My attraction to the Dyson Institute stemmed primarily from its unwavering commitment towards revolutionising engineering pedagogy, while driving innovation and technology. The Institute’s multi-disciplinary and vertical research and project development approach which cuts across Dyson’s industrial strides is of particular appeal, as it promises opportunities to apply my expertise in IoT and networking across a diverse spectrum of initiatives, thereby contributing to the creation of cutting-edge products. Furthermore, the prospect of engaging in teaching and mentorship initiatives to cultivate future engineering talent was highly compelling. My extensive industry experience in networking further reinforced my belief that I could help students bridge the gap between theory and practical, while making valuable contributions to Dyson's network-related initiatives and contribute to enhancing connectivity aspects within our innovative product portfolio. Since joining, I have been exposed to even more opportunities to contribute towards reforming Engineering pedagogy and understand better how to engage with the research and development strides of Dyson at large.

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Dr Saeid Hadidimoud

Dr Saeid Hadidimoud

I was awarded a BEng degree in Mechanical Engineering followed by an MSc in Solid Mechanics both at the University of Tehran with first class. I then moved to the UK for further studies and was awarded a PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2000 at the University of Surrey. Since then, I have worked as research and academic member of staff for UK and overseas universities and research institutions.

I see the institute as a “university on the shop floor”, linking the learning process with work experience directly. The integrated study/work approach makes Dyson Institute a top choice to join for students and academics. For students to develop towards becoming ready-to-work engineers and for academics to work at the heart of leading-edge technology, contribute to training of top-quality engineers and develop and examine innovative ideas that could benefit the industry and the society.

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Srilatha Pamuri

Srilatha Pamuri

I am a dedicated academic professional and an Embedded Systems Lecturer at the Dyson Institute of Engineering and Technology. With over a decade of teaching experience and a strong foundation in Electronics and Communication Engineering, I am deeply committed to delivering high-quality education and inspiring innovation in engineering. I am actively advancing research on developing a Security Processor for IoT architecture as part of my doctoral (PhD) research, reflecting my dedication to innovating in IoT Device Security and cybersecurity. I hold a Master of Technology in Digital Systems and Computer Electronics and a Bachelor of Technology in Electronics and Communication Engineering.

I was particularly drawn to join the Dyson Institute because of its distinctive integration of academic teaching with industrial practice. The opportunity to engage with highly motivated student engineers who are immersed in real-world engineering innovations is both inspiring and professionally rewarding. Dyson’s commitment to innovation, hands-on learning, and academic excellence aligns perfectly with my passion for applied learning and research-informed teaching. I saw it as an environment where I could contribute effectively while continuing to develop as both an educator and a researcher in the field of Electronics and Computer Engineering.

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Dr. Stuart Nicholson

Dr. Stuart Nicholson

Prior to working at the Dyson Institute of Engineering and Technology, I was a Lecturer in Computer Science at Swansea university. I was attracted to the Dyson Institute in 2022 to be a part of, and help establish, a far more substantial learning experience for students, where theory comes with application and practice – something I believe traditional universities of scale have lost sight of.

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Dr. Ugur Efem

Dr. Ugur Efem

I completed my BSc in Mathematics at Istanbul Bilgi University (2009), and obtained an MSc in Mathematics from Sabanci University (2011), in Istanbul. I then moved to the UK to pursue my PhD, and I obtained a DPhil in Mathematics (specialising in model theory, a sub-branch of logic) from University of Oxford in 2019.

I am a member of the London Mathematical Society. Since March 2025, I am a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA). I also obtained the SEDA – PDF Supporting Learning Award in 2020.

Before joining Dyson Institute, I worked as a Lecturer in Mathematics at the University of Dundee (2020-2021) and the University of Brighton (2021 - 2022).

What is most exciting about the Dyson Institute to me is its approach to engineering education, and to STEM education from a broader perspective. I saw being a part of an academic team that aspires to design and deliver a high quality engineering degree programme as an exciting challenge and an invaluable opportunity for myself. The opportunity to collaborate with colleagues at the Institute to develop and deliver high quality education, and with the wider Institute team on operational components of higher education such as Teaching and Learning, and Admissions is my reward. Teaching mathematics at an engineering school, (which is a part of an engineering powerhouse) allowed me to view topics that I learned purely from a mathematical perspective, also from an engineering viewpoint. This helped me to broaden my knowledge and enriched my teaching experience.

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