Neil Buckney

Neil Buckney has a diverse work experience in engineering and research. Neil currently serves as the Head of Engineering at Modern Synthesis since May 2023.

Prior to this, they worked at ARRIVAL from 2019 to 2023, where they held multiple roles, including Head of Materials Engineering and Lead Design Engineer in the Van Team. In these positions, they led the Materials Engineering team and was responsible for materials testing, technology development, and design for manufacture. Neil also implemented composite technologies, adhesive bonding, and aluminum materials in the van team.

Before joining ARRIVAL, Neil worked at LM Wind Power from 2014 to 2019 as a Lead Structural Engineer. Neil gained valuable experience in working with both small and large companies during the acquisition of Blade Dynamics by GE Renewables and its incorporation into LM Wind Power.

Neil started their professional career as a Research Assistant at the University of Bristol in 2013, where they applied their PhD knowledge to the European-wide InnWind project. Neil assessed the structural efficiency of blade structures and made design modifications to improve their performance.

In addition, Neil had a two-month research secondment at Sandia National Laboratories in 2013, where they worked on the Large Offshore Rotor Development project. This opportunity allowed him to establish lasting research partnerships and develop inter-institutional relations.

Neil Buckney completed their education in a chronological manner. From 2005 to 2009, they attended the University of Strathclyde, where they earned a Bachelor of Engineering with Honours (BEng Hons) in Mechanical Engineering. In 2007 and 2008, they participated in a study abroad program at the University of Iowa, focusing on Mechanical Engineering. Following this, Buckney pursued further studies at the University of Bristol from 2009 to 2013, leading to the completion of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Advanced Composites.