Dr. Duncan L. Hickman

Founder and Director of Tektonex Ltd, a company that specialises in sensor design, processing, performance modelling, and data analysis for defence and security systems. Recent projects include the development of an FPGA-based multi-band image processing and fusion system for military vehicles, handheld imaging cameras for border security, multi-band polarimetric imaging systems, and the development of ATDR processing. Tektonex has an international portfolio of clients and partners that provide sensor hardware and camera platforms (vehicles, drones).

Prior to Tektonex, I was a Director and Chief Engineer at Waterfall Solutions, a UK-based SME business that became a preferred supplier to the UK MOD. Waterfall specialised in the development of novel image and data processing and example programmes undertaken included the design and development of a full-panoramic dual-band imaging system for maritime and vehicle-mounted applications, the design of an AI-based ATDR system, and high performance imaging cameras for police and fire services.

Previous roles included Project Engineering Manager at BAE Systems (Seawolf Point Defence System), Design-Lead and International Group Manager at Thales (Typhoon IRST, MAWS, Land Vehicles), Optics Design Authority at Marconi Space Systems, and Senior Research Officer in BAE Systems (interferometry, laser and fibre-optic systems, holography).

I have also held a number of academic posts including those at Oxford University and University of Surrey, and continue to provide invited presentations and lectures at schools and universities across the UK and internationally. My background is in theoretical and engineering physics (first degree and doctorate) and I have published over 75 technical papers and books across a broad range of EO/IR sensor related subjects. I am pleased to support SPIE and chair the EO/IR Systems Technology and Applications Conference for them.