Our Team

Our team have a diverse and extensive background in science, technology and business. This combination provides a unique perspective and skill set, allowing the team to effectively navigate challenges and successfully deliver our solution to market.

 

Core Team

  • Nico Fenu PhD

    CEO & Founder

    Dr Fenu received a BEng in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Cagliari, Italy, in 2015, and in 2017 received an MSc (Hons) in Biomedical Engineering, from the University of Dundee. ..

    Dr Fenu completed his PhD at the University of Glasgow on ‘Investigation of piezoelectric materials for ultrasonic surgery’ which focused on doped piezocrystals and lead-free piezoceramics for high-power, low-frequency ultrasonic applications.

    During the final year of his PhD, Dr Fenu joined the programme grant ‘Ultrasurge, Surgery enabled by Ultrasonics’ where he worked on miniaturised ultrasonic surgical tools for integration with robotics. In December 2021 Dr Fenu founded Nami Surgical Ltd. and he leads Nami’s activities as CEO. Dr Fenu is the key named inventor in the patent at the core of Nami Surgical technology.

  • Rebecca Cleary PhD

    CTO & Founder

    Dr Cleary received an MEng in Electronic and Electrical Engineering with International Studies in 2013.

    From 2013 to 2018 she completed a PhD at the University of Glasgow researching the use of ultrasonic needles for bone penetration. ..

    During this period she was rewarded with the receipt of the R.W.B Stephens prize by Elsevier at the International Conference of Ultrasonics (ICU) and Dr Alan Stirling Brown Prize for her PhD thesis.

    After 3 years as a lead post-doctorate researcher within the Centre for Medical and Industrial Ultrasonics, Dr Cleary was a key member of the cohort who founded Nami Surgical Ltd. She leads Nami’s technical and regulatory activities as CTO.

  • Alexandr Kiyashko

    Product Design Engineer

    Alexandr Kiyashko is a highly accomplished young specialist from the Republic of Moldova.

    As a proud graduate of the University of Glasgow’s Mechatronics Engineering program, Alexandr has earned numerous accolades for academic excellence. ..

    While pursuing his studies, Alexandr demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit by successfully building a manufacturing start-up from the ground up.

    Upon joining Nami, Alexandr quickly made an impact by implementing innovative technology and rapidly accelerating the company’s product development process. With a unique blend of multidisciplinary expertise, including AI computing technologies, product design, and manufacturing, Alexandr consistently delivers exceptional solutions that push the boundaries of what is possible.

    Thanks to his unwavering commitment to excellence and his innovative approach to problem-solving, Alexandr has become a driving force in our team. He serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating what is possible when passion and expertise are combined.

  • Bartas Abaravicius

    Bartas Abaravicius PHD

    Specialist Electronics Engineer

    Dr Bartas is a specialist electronics systems engineer at Nami Surgical. ..

    He completed his PhD in Electronics and Electrical Engineering at the University of Glasgow in 2023, where his research focused on developing integrated circuits and systems for microultrasound capsule endoscopy.

    At Nami Surgical, Bartas is involved in the end-to-end process of electronics development for surgical ultrasound equipment, including all phases from early prototyping and design to comprehensive testing and product finalization. With his specialization in analog electronics and extensive experience in mixed-signal system design, Bartas brings a wealth of expertise that is instrumental in advancing Nami Surgical’s innovative ultrasound solutions.

    Bartas also maintains a postgraduate research affiliation with the University of Edinburgh, where he works on integrated circuit design projects. The synergy between his academic research and industry work allows him to infuse Nami Surgical’s projects with state-of-the-art concepts in ultrasound and electronics, accelerating the company’s technological advancements.

  • Jim Doyle

    Jim Doyle

    Hardware Engineer

    I joined Nami Surgical having held previous roles as a Senior Electronics Design Engineer and bring a wealth of cross-industry expertise that spans numerous fields. ..

     These include highly regulated industries for the design of innovative Medical Devices, Medical Device Test Systems, Safety Monitoring Systems for Potentially Explosive Environments and also Consumer Electronics.

    This work has necessitated strict adherence to international product safety and performance and quality standards, both of which require an eye for detail.  I have led and guided numerous products through the regulatory test certification process to achieve full compliance, whilst also managing the transfer of product to manufacture.

    I have a passion for developing medical devices and this drives the need to ensure good design practice and encourages thoroughness both individually and as part of a team. I take great pride in the knowledge that the work I do has great benefits to both patients and clinicians.

    Away from work I enjoy a bit of golf and watching football. I also enjoy family time, especially being kept busy with my three grandchildren.

  • Jenny Ball

    Jenny Ball

    Product Design Manager

    Jenny received her BSc in Electronic Engineering in 2018 from South East Technological University (Ireland).

    Since then, Jenny has gained over 5 years of experience in the medical device industry. ..

    She has worked extensively on the design and development of medical devices and has led several projects through from initial feasibility to product commercialisation while pushing the boundaries of innovation in the respiratory sector to improve patient care. Jenny has also managed the product lifecycle management of medical devices on the market ensuring continuous supply to patients around the world.

    Some of Jenny’s expertise includes product design and development, risk management activities, documentation, verification and validation testing requirements and has a strong working knowledge of essential regulatory standards for medical device development. Jenny is taking up the role of Product Design Manager and is excited to be working towards bringing innovative ultrasonic surgical equipment to the market to change how robotic surgery operates.

  • Yuchen Liu

    Yuchen Liu

    Product Designer

    Yuchen Liu works as a product designer in NamiSurgical and is currently pursuing his Ph.D. ..

    degree in mechanical engineering from the Centre for Medical and Industrial Ultrasonics, University of Glasgow, where he specialises in power ultrasonics, finite element analysis, and solid mechanics.

    He obtained his M.Eng. degree from the Northeast Forestry University in 2021, and a B.Eng. degree from the Liaoning University of Technology in 2017, all in mechanical engineering. He was awarded the Bill Nicol Engineering Scholarship for his Ph.D. research. He is a member of the Institute of Physics (IOP) and an associate member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

  • Jack Stevenson

    Jack Stevenson PHD

    Transducer Designer

    Jack received a Masters in physics with specialisation in complexity physics from the University of Strathclyde in 2019. ..

    This included a research project on passive material characterisation using a custom-built Mills Cross, high-power, underwater transmitter. The research was conducted during his tenure in the sonar industry. Jack was subsequently rewarded the Richard Thornley Memorial Prize for best project in physics or applied physics for that year.

    Later in 2019, Jack started as a PhD researcher at the University of Glasgow on the topic of miniaturising a focussed ultrasound transducer for soft tissue ablation. The devices were designed for robotic delivery in laparoscopic procedures and integrated with force feedback.

    Jack specialises in novel piezoelectric material characterisation techniques for high-power applications, implementation of impedance matching for high-power driving, development of miniaturised devices and additive manufacturing.

    After a year working as a post-doctorate researcher within the Centre for Medical and Industrial Ultrasonics, Jack joined Nami Surgical as a product designer to apply his expertise to the electrical and mechanical design of miniaturised ultrasonic surgical devices.

  • Alex Moldovan PhD

    Specialist Systems Engineer

    I am Alexandru Moldovan, a Specialist Electronics Systems Engineer with eight years of experience in designing and manufacturing electronic systems for biomedical and non-destructive testing applications. ..

    My work has included the development of wearable and ingestible ultrasonic sensors and their driving platforms, from initial concept to hardware prototypes, as well as signal processing and image reconstruction.

    Throughout my career, I have been involved in several projects centred on the design, fabrication, and evaluation of wireless endoscopic capsules for imaging and therapeutic applications. I have been responsible for project specification, management, and collaboration with research, clinical and industrial partners.

    My technical expertise includes analog and digital circuit design, CMOS layout, circuit testing and validation, high-frequency ultrasound data acquisition and beam forming algorithms. Additionally, I have worked with cell cultures for targeted drug delivery and performed ex-vivo and in-vivo trials for medical imaging and therapy applications.

    My current goal is to support Nami’s efforts in advancing ultrasound technology for robotic surgery. I am excited to join the team and contribute to the innovative work being done here.

  • Luke McGowan

    Luke McGowan

    Lead Technician

    With over 10 years of experience in Injection Moulding, Oil & Gas, and Medical/Science engineering sectors, I am proficient in machining and inspection. ..

    I have a strong command of Microsoft Office and design software such as AutoCAD and EDGECAM.

    I excel in team environments, utilizing my communication skills to contribute effectively during team briefs and generate innovative ideas. I can work under pressure, consistently delivering results to the correct specifications, even with tight tolerances.

    I thrive on new challenges and have successfully led various projects from design to manufacturing and complete build in the science industry. This experience will be invaluable in my role as Lead Technician at Nami Surgical.

    In this role, I am eager to bring Nami Surgical’s ideas to reality by leveraging my previous experience. I aim to drive product development forward by developing new methods for machining and assembly.

  • Kiara Walsh

    Kiara Walsh

    Operations and Innovation Associate

    Kiara has recently graduated with first-class BSc Honours in Pharmacology from the University of Edinburgh in July 2024. ..

    During her time at the university, she gained significant laboratory experience, completing her final project dissertation at the Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences at the Royal Infirmary in Edinburgh. Additionally, she undertook a summer research assistant internship at the Queens Medical Research Institute, further solidifying her practical skills and knowledge.

    While at Edinburgh University, Kiara developed a keen interest in the commercialisation of products within the life sciences industry. She is excited to leverage this passion and knowledge in her role at Nami Surgical.

    As an Operations Assistant at Nami Surgical, Kiara will play a pivotal role in the company’s daily operations. Her responsibilities include implementing a Quality Management System, managing and supporting projects, investor reporting, financial administration, and handling various administrative tasks such as calendar management, travel coordination, and HR support.

Extended Team

  • Albert Nicholl

    Albert Nicholl

    Executive Chairman

    Albert is a distinguished business leader with vast experience in managing and advising on international healthcare operations. ..

    He has a strategic mindset, excelling in driving substantial, measurable transformational improvements, restructuring operations, and developing top-tier personnel to ensure sustained growth, competitive advantage, and profit maximisation.

    Albert retired from global medical device companies a decade ago to dedicate his expertise to supporting early-stage businesses in their commercialisation efforts and securing external financing. His mentoring of founding teams is crucial in positioning them to successfully execute their business plans and enhance shareholder value.

  • Nikki Palfrey

    Non-Executive Director & Commercial Advisor

    Nikki is a very successful & experienced Commercial Director with a demonstrated history of working in the medical device industry.

    Skilled in Marketing Management, Market Planning, Sales, Medical Devices, and Business Development. ..

    Strong sales professional with a Bachelor’s degree focused in Law & Accountancy from Staffordshire University.

    Nikki is currently the Chief Commercial Officer for Summit and previously held a number of senior director sales and marketing roles in the surgical industry space with Orthosonics International, SRA Developments, Bowa Medical UK.

  • Damian Mole

    Non-Executive Director

    Damian Mole BMedSc MBChB PhD FRCS is a liver and pancreas surgeon, translational scientist and biotech entrepreneur. ..

    Damian is jointly trained in the UK and USA in translational science and business leadership and has managed multiple high-value research and industry collaborations. Damian is a board-experienced biotech Director, having co-founded Kynos Therapeutics Ltd with VC investor and Scottish Enterprise backing. He led the spin-out and licensing into Kynos from the University of Edinburgh after discovering a new drug target at the interface of inflammation and metabolism, building on an award-winning translational research GSK DPAc Collaboration. He has led Kynos’ clinical development into the clinic.

    Damian holds the 1777 Chair of Surgery at the University of Edinburgh and was recently a UK Medical Research Council Senior Clinical Fellow. Damian is a co-investigator and advisor on multiple scientific and engineering projects, including soft robotics, and has successfully executed UKRI InnovateUK Biomedical Catalyst projects as PI from academia and biotech standpoints.

    Damian is driven by a passion and determination to deliver innovative solutions to challenging medical problems, building on the strongest science and technology, a clear line of sight to patients, and recognises the value brought by world-class teams.

  • John Craig

    Chief Financial Officer

    John P Craig BAcc (Hons) CA, has over 20 years of experience providing corporate finance and business advisory services to a range of high growth SMEs.

    Key focus is on assisting these high growth companies to secure the appropriate level of investment, whilst on a Non-Exec basis, providing advice to these and other companies on all aspects of business strategy, financial reporting and management.

    Specialities include preparing investor ready funding propositions and in identifying and negotiating the appropriate mix of equity, debt and grant funding. ..

    John also brings strong experience of the M&A market, inclusive of deal sourcing, project management and specialise in providing tailored financial due diligence services for these transactions. Since joining DC Consulting, John has advised on transactions with a combined value in excess of £75m across a myriad of sectors.

    Prior to 2004, John spent a number of years as a Senior Audit Manager with Mazars, which assisted in developing my robust experience in the identification and implementation of financial systems and controls.

    Finally, John also holds the position of non-executive Finance Director with a number of companies and assist them with their growth plans in a controlled manner, recognising the dynamic market that we operate in.

  • Helen Erwood

    Helen Erwood PhD

    QMS Manager

    Dr Helen Erwood is Chairman of ESPL Regulatory Consulting UK and its sister company in Ireland.

    Helen has more than 35 years’ experience in global Regulatory Affairs, including senior positions in what are now Astra Zeneca, Sanofi, and GSK. ..

    She leads a team of very experienced regulatory professionals supporting pharmaceutical and medical device developments and applications in Europe, North America, SE Asia and Australasia.

    Helen regularly lectures in EU/US regulatory requirements and is a Module leader for the TOPRA MSc on Medical Technology, on Design and Development of Medical Devices.  Helen is an accredited member of TOPRA (EU) and RAPS (USA), a Chartered Biologist (MRSB), a Member of the European Medical Writers Association and of the Institute of Directors.  She and her team regularly support University start-ups and spin-offs with their regulatory strategies / requirements and Helen is delighted to be a member of the Scientific Advisory Board.

Scientific Advisors

  • Prof Margaret Lucas PhD

    Margaret Lucas FIMechE FREng FRSE holds the Regius Chair of Civil Engineering and Mechanics at the University of Glasgow.

    She is Professor of Ultrasonics and Director of the Centre for Medical & Industrial Ultrasonics in the James Watt School of Engineering and Dean of Research for the College of Science & Engineering.

    Margaret’s research is in the field of power ultrasonics, advancing technologies in areas across industrial and medical applications. ..

    For more than 20 years her group have researched and innovated in ultrasonic surgical devices, working in partnership with multiple medical device companies.

    She is currently leading a 6-year programme of research across 5 UK universities on the miniaturising of ultrasonic surgical devices for integration with surgical robots (Ultrasurge – surgery enabled by ultrasonics) funded by EPSRC. Margaret has also worked with industry across multiple sectors, including in manufacturing processes, subsea exploration and space technologies. She is currently Vice-President of the Ultrasonic Industry Association and is an Associate Editor of Ultrasonics. Margaret is a Scientific Adviser for Nami Surgical.

  • Prof Sandy Cochran PhD, MBA

    Sandy Cochran is Professor of Ultrasound Materials and Devices at the University of Glasgow. ..

    He has been active in medical ultrasound for more than 20 years, carrying out research in both the diagnostic and therapeutic domains. During his academic career, he has published more than 100 peer reviewed papers, with approaching 400 other conference proceedings and presentations. He is a Senior Member of IEEE and a Fellow of the UK Institute of Physics.

    Prof. Cochran has been very active in technical work with healthcare organisations and numerous companies internationally. He holds an MBA, along with his BSc and PhD. He is a named inventor on 11 patents, has held several consulting positions and has been involved in two previous start-ups, with research alumni founding two more. In Nami Surgical Ltd, he is honoured to have a role as a member of the Scientific Advisory Board.

  • Prof Susan Moug

    Professor Susan Moug presently serves as a distinguished Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon at two renowned healthcare institutions: NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Royal Alexandra Hospital, as well as Golden Jubilee National Hospital, Glasgow.

    Susan’s impressive academic qualifications include an FRCS (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons) earned in 2011, a PhD obtained in 2007, a BSci (Hons) acquired in 1995, and an MB ChB received in 2000, attesting to her exceptional dedication to her field.

    Her clinical expertise encompasses a range of compelling areas, such as Colorectal resection, Minimally invasive surgical procedures, Evaluation of outcomes and quality of life for patients, Amplifying the patient’s voice in healthcare, and Pioneering research in the field of audio healthcare. ..

    Professor Susan Moug brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our Scientific Advisory Board, enriching our team with her invaluable insights and expertise.