Sunborne Systems was founded by a group of experienced scientists and engineers who continue to run the business today. Together, they represent an unrivalled body of expertise in the field of cracking ammonia to produce green energy.
One of Sunborne Systems’ founders, James is the inventor of many of the advanced ammonia-based cycles that Sunborne’s technology enables. An aerothermal specialist by training, he has tackled problems ranging from multi-phase microscale flows to heavy industrial processes and hydrogen-fuelled aerospace propulsion systems. Elected a Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers in 2021, James has proven leadership, strategic and business development skills in the field of engineering.
A co-founder of Sunborne Systems, Tom has spent the last decade developing the STFC catalyst technology, aiding its evolution through several generations. Tom is also responsible for developing bespoke software for the analysis of ammonia cracking (and synthesis) catalysts, with many published papers on these systems to his name.
A passionate advocate of achieving net zero through rocket science, Richard began his career with Rolls-Royce Military Engine Division – working on advanced gas turbine concepts. He was responsible for engine design work on the RB545 air-breathing rocket engines for HOTOL and winged launcher studies for the European Space Agency. Richard is a founding Director of Reaction Engines Ltd and helped devise the SABRE concept with its innovative precooler technology.
As Vice Chairman and co-founder of Kiko Ventures, Robert works hands-on with founders of hardware businesses – supporting them to help unlock advances in clean technology. Robert has been working in cleantech since 2000, when he started his career as a hydrogen and fuel cell scientist. He is a McKinsey consultant and is passionate about growing a community focussed on climate technology innovation.