Dr Blair Kennedy - University of St Andrews

UK IC Postdoctoral Research Fellowships 2026

The challenge

A major stumbling block for autonomous internet of things (IoT) sensors is the need for regular replacement of batteries. In this regard, thermoelectric generators are of interest because they generate relatively large power outputs of 10s of mW from 20-30 °C temperature gradients, which is an order of magnitude more than common mechanical harvesting techniques. Current commercial generators rely on tellurium materials, which do not have a reliable UK supply chain. 

The research

Dr Blair Kennedy will address this challenge by developing novel commercial scale generators based on more abundant magnesium alloys. 

His work will demonstrate the suitability of thermoelectric generators based on Zintl, magnesium based, materials to power IoT sensors. The main challenges that will be addressed are scalable production of thermoelectric materials, fabrication of larger generators with more than 25 couples, and performance validation under realistic building waste heat scenarios. The final outcome will be a TRL 4-5 validation of thermoelectric generators based on Zintl materials for IoT power. 

The researcher

Dr Kennedy is a Research Fellow at the University of St Andrews, with six years’ experience in the development, characterisation and application of novel thermoelectric materials. His career so far has focused on investigating half-Heusler materials for high-temperature applications, with more recent research moving into near-room-temperature Zintl materials. In recent years, his motivation has shifted to implementing the results of this research into applicable thermoelectric generators for real world applications.