Dr Kevin Honeychurch

• Qualifications:HND, B.Sc.(Hons), M.Sc. Ph.D. MRSC, CChem, FHEA
• Position:Senior Lecturer Forensic Chemistry
• Department:HAS - Applied Sciences
• Telephone:+441173287357
• Email:Kevin.Honeychurch@uwe.ac.uk
• Social media:

About me

With over 30 years of expertise in chemical sciences, I have applied my knowledge to advance electrochemical, liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry techniques for detecting drugs and toxins in environmental and biological systems. Recently, I led a pioneering project investigating the chemical behaviour of GBL and GHB in beverages and their detection using smartphone computer vision, a study that attracted national attention and was featured on the BBC.  Previously, I pushed the boundaries of electrochemical sensor innovation, being the first to report novel screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) for the direct Hg-free electrochemical determination of a number of heavy metals.

I am proud to be recognised among the top 2% of scientists in the world in my area of chemistry, a reflection of a career dedicated to advancing science that matters. My research spans more than three decades across industry and academia, driving multidisciplinary projects that deliver chemistry-based solutions to some of society’s most pressing challenges: healthcare, food security, environmental sustainability, and forensic science.  I have published over 75 peer-reviewed papers and equal number of conference presentations (H-index of 31, total citations >3350, i10-index 58).  My work consistently ranks among the most downloaded from my faculty and research centre. This influence underscores the relevance and reach of my research within the global scientific community, supporting real-world applications in law enforcement as an expert witness and in industry through collaborative projects and consultancy.  I am a member of the Institute for Biosensing Technology and actively engage in knowledge exchange to ensure research outcomes influence professional practice and policy.

I am deeply committed to advancing the university’s mission through public engagement, innovation, and inclusivity. I regularly participate in outreach activities such as science festivals and community initiatives to promote STEM and forensic science, while fostering collaborations with professional bodies and international networks that enhance the university’s global reputation.  

Today, my focus is on pioneering new areas of analytical chemistry for forensic and environmental applications, developing technologies that redefine how we detect, analyse, and interpret evidence. This vision is not just about advancing science, it is about creating tools that protect communities, uphold justice, and shape a safer future.

Professional Qualifications

I obtained a Ph.D. in 2001 in Analytical Chemistry.  I am a full Member of the Royal Society of Chemistry (MRSC) and have been awarded the title of Chartered Chemist (CChem). 

Editorial Board Memberships

I am committed to advancing the science and application of the analytical sciences. As Associate Subject Editor for Biosensors and an editor for journals including Sensors, Sci, Frontiers in Chemistry, Journal of Chromatographic Science, and the International Journal of Analytical Chemistry, I work to shape and support research that drives innovation in this exciting area.

My editorial experience also includes leading a multi-author book, Nanosensors for Chemical and Biological Applications: Sensing with Nanotubes, Nanowires, and Nanoparticles, which brought together cutting-edge perspectives on nanoscale sensing technologies.

Beyond editing, I actively contribute as a reviewer for world-leading journals and regularly assess proposals for major funding bodies such as BBSRC and NASA. These roles reflect my passion for fostering high-quality research and ensuring that transformative ideas can thrive.

Academic Service

I design and deliver modules that integrate cutting-edge sensing and analytical techniques, preparing students for careers in a rapidly evolving sector.  I use research-informed teaching to inspire individuals about the power of science; maximising Teaching through Research.  I champion experiential learning through case-based approaches and industry-linked projects that enhance graduate employability. Alongside this, I supervise several Ph.D. researchers in the chemical sciences, fostering innovation and scientific excellence.

I serve on School committees and contribute to curriculum development and quality assurance processes. I mentor early-career academics, students and postgraduate researchers, fostering a supportive and inclusive research culture, frequently publishing with students as co-authors.  I coordinate the Centre for Research in Biosciences Interdisciplinary Research Seminar Series, creating a platform for both external and internal collaboration and knowledge exchange across scientific disciplines.  I also lead the Forensic Research Group, championing research that drives progress in forensic science and its application to societal needs.

I believe the next decade will redefine forensic and sensing technologies, and I am committed to being at the forefront of this transformation, bridging chemistry, biology, and data science to deliver solutions that matter.

For a full list of my publications, see my Google Scholar page

ResearchGate: Kevin Honeychurch (researchgate.net)

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6363-7178

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kevin-honeychurch-37688a30

Area of expertise

Liquid chromatography with electrochemical, UV and MS detection for the determination of trace levels of third-hand smoke and drugs in the environment and biological fluids.

Chemical analysis related to forensic science.

Electrochemical techniques in conjunction with carbon screen and 3D printed electrodes, silver and gold electrodes fabricated from compact discs for the determination of biologically and environmentally important compounds.​

Smartphone-computer vision colorimetry for drugs and food analysis.

Publications

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