Dr Stefano C G Biagini

Stefano is a research chemist and academic leader whose career bridges organic, polymer, and supermolecular chemistry with national leadership in programme development and inclusive science education.

Stefano's research explores the design and synthesis of biologically relevant and functional materials, integrating organic synthesis, polymer and supermolecular chemistry.

Key areas of research have included ring-opening metathesis polymerisation (ROMP), complex monomer and biomonomer synthesis, and the development of radiopharmaceuticals for cancer imaging and therapeutic applications.

Currently, Stafano is interested in self-assembling polymer systems and ROMP-derived conjugates for biomedical use (e.g, drug delivery) and for conservation (e.g, sustainable plastics).

Stefano is nationally influential in shaping higher education Chemistry and Forensic Science. He was a key drafter of the QAA Subject Benchmark Statement for Forensic Science and is currently a member of the RSC's Accreditation and Validation Panel, which is responsible for setting criteria and HE accreditation for chemistry programmes in the UK and abroad.

Stefano introduced the innovative Forensic Science programmes at Kent, achieving its first #1 national NSS ranking. Students consistently highlight Stefano's engaging teaching and high-quality feedback through teaching evaluations and teaching prize nominations.

Modules taught:

• Organic Reactions and Mechanisms
• Transformations and Chirality in Organic Chemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Chemistry and Forensic Science Research Projects
• Substances of Abuse (MSc)

Stefano studied at the University of Exeter for his BSc and PhD and worked at the University of Durham, Imperial and King's College London before moving to the University of Kent. Stefano has been Director of Undergraduate Studies. Senior Tutor for Physics, Chemistry, Forensic Science and Astrophysics, and a member of the School Senior Leadership Team.

He served as Chair of the University Accessibility Steering Group, established the Kent Digital Accessibility Working Group, and was a founding member of the award-winning OPERA (Opportunity, Productivity, Engagement, Reducing Barriers, Achievement) - an institutional initiative to widen participation and improve student outcomes. He is currently part of the Athena Swam committee and part of the Windsor Fellowship network to mentor school students from underrepresented backgrounds.

National and Professional Service:

• EPSRC Peer Review College (2023-)
• Committee Member, RSC Allocation & Validation (2023-)
• Reviewer, Daphne Jackson Trust (2024)
• Mentor and Reviewer, Advance HE (2023-)
• Panel Member, QAA Subject Benchmark Statement for Forensic Science (2021-22)
• Mentor, Windsor Fellowship STEMM & RSC Chemistry Programme (2023-)
• Keynote speaker and advisor on accessibility and inclusion at national and international conferences (2019-)

Professional Affiliations and Awards:

• RSC Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity Fund award (2025, 2020)
• Principal Fellow of the Higher Educational Academy (2025)
• Times Higher Education Award – Outstanding Student Support (OPERA) (2018)
• Fellow, Royal Society of Chemistry (2016)
• Affiliate, Chartered Society of Forensic Scientists (2021)
• Member, American Chemical Society (2018–)