UCL Engineering Inaugural Lecture Series | Professor Matt Ritchie

Professor Matt Ritchie will deliver his Inaugural Lecture, marking a key milestone in his career as he reflects on his research in the area of advancing Intelligent Multi-Function Radio Frequency devices at UCL Electronic and Electrical Engineering.

This event celebrates his promotion to Professor and offers an opportunity to explore his innovative work.

Abstract:

For this inaugural lecture, I will offer insight into the expanding field of Radio Frequency (RF) sensing, beginning with what RF sensing is and why it has become a critical technology for defence, security, and other domains that must interpret complex environments under real-world constraints. The talk will explore the diversity of its applications—detecting and tracking UAVs, sensing people moving through cluttered spaces, observing the dynamics of the sea surface, and even monitoring the flight of vultures - and will examine why these capabilities matter in operational settings where robust information can be hard to obtain. Drawing on practical radar and RF sensing systems that I have designed, built, and deployed internationally, the lecture will highlight the technical, environmental, and logistical challenges involved in turning research ideas into systems that perform reliably outside controlled conditions.

The lecture will also include the latest work generated through my Royal Academy of Engineering Fellowship, showing how current research directions are shaping the future of RF sensing and its role in addressing the complex challenges faced in defence, security, and broader real-world operations.

Date: Wednesday, 4th February, 2026

Time: 17:30 - 20:00

Location: Room G06, UCL Bloomsbury Campus, Roberts Building, Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7JE

Everyone is welcome!

Our Inaugural Lectures are free to attend for all students, staff and members of the public.

Lectures are typically one hour long. A drinks reception will follow, to which everyone is welcome to join.

Booking is essential to secure your space.

If for any reason, you cannot attend the event in person, the event will also be livestreamed. Registration is required:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ucl-engineering-inaugural-lectures-prof-matt-ritchie-livestream-tickets-1968560497440?aff=oddtdtcreator