Mr Simon Mekhail
Published: 29 April 2026
School of Physics & Astronomy
Describe your research in fewer than 20 words
I develop ultra-thin endoscopes capable of 3D imaging for use in medicine, security, and industrial inspection.
What fellowship do you hold?
I hold a Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellowship, which began in September 2023 and runs until September 2026.
What is your area of research?
I work in optics within the field of physics and astronomy. My core research focuses on creating the world's thinnest endoscope—just about 100 micrometres in diameter. What makes our work unique is that we can perform 3D imaging through this incredibly thin optical fibre. This allows us to create minimally invasive tools for medical diagnostics and beyond.
Why did you choose to pursue a fellowship in your research career?
The fellowship gave me the freedom to dive deeper into the development of advanced optical tools and explore their real-world applications without the distractions of heavy teaching loads. It was an ideal opportunity to focus my efforts on pushing the boundaries of imaging technology.
Why did you choose to work at the University of Glasgow?
Glasgow provided the ideal interdisciplinary environment for developing my research. The facilities, supportive colleagues, and the collaborative culture here really helped me translate my academic work into something more practical and commercially viable.
What is your research highlight?
One highlight was publishing a paper in Science showcasing our endoscope’s imaging capabilities. It was a significant step forward and led to further developments and potential spinout applications.
What do you look for in a collaboration?
I value collaborations that bring real-world impact—whether that's in healthcare, diagnostics, or industrial inspection. Working with partners who can help translate lab-based tools into applicable technology is crucial for me.
How do you see your research impacting society?
Our ultra-thin endoscopes could revolutionise medical diagnostics by reaching previously inaccessible parts of the body. From optical biopsies in the lungs to precision-guided drug delivery, the societal impact is potentially vast.
What are your future plans?
I'm actively exploring commercialisation opportunities. I’ve spun out a company—although it’s still in early stages—and I’m pursuing grants and innovation funding to develop the endoscope technology for healthcare applications and beyond. I'm also engaging with NHS innovation bodies and looking into MedTech awards at the University.
How has the fellowship benefitted your career?
It has allowed me to focus fully on research and innovation, expand my academic portfolio, build industry links, and to explore routes to impact and commercialisation.
Have you undertaken any Public Engagement?
I'm actively pursuing pathways that could eventually engage the public, particularly in the context of how technology like ours can change the future of healthcare diagnostics.
What are you most proud of?
I’m proud of developing a technology that merges academic optics with practical impact. Launching a spinout company even at a symbolic valuation marks the start of something meaningful. It’s gratifying to know that what we’re doing in the lab could truly help people someday.
First published: 29 April 2026