Meet Robert Tisdale, Head Scientist
Meet Robert Tisdale, our brilliant Head Scientist at IXRF Systems! Robert leads the development and innovation of our cutting-edge microXRF spectroscopy systems, ensuring they deliver unmatched performance and precision. His expertise and dedication are at the heart of our technological advancements and success.
Can you tell us about your role at IXRF Systems?
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- I’m the Head Scientist here at IXRF Systems. Over the past year, I’ve been the primary inventor on four filed patent applications, with another one currently in progress. My responsibilities include strategic management of technology, experimental design, and instrumentation design. I also take on roles like webmaster, photographer, graphic designer, and content writer. It’s a dynamic position that allows me to contribute in a variety of ways to our innovation and success.
You’ve had an incredible career. Can you share something that most people don’t know about you?
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- I started my journey in analytical chemistry back in 1971 as a medical technician and phlebotomist in the clinical laboratory at Jefferson Regional Medical Center in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. During my eight years there, I operated various analytical instruments, focusing on Technicon AutoAnalyzers. I was the first chemist in Arkansas to implement radioimmunoassay (RIA) in a clinical production environment in the mid-1970s. That early experience laid the foundation for my passion for instrumentation and science.
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- My academic career included eight years of basic research under three principal investigators at university. Highlights include working on mechanistic organic chemistry with Prof. Dr. Art Fry, synthetic fuels research with Prof. Dr. Stan Okrasinski, and bioinorganic chemistry with Prof. Dr. T. Adrian George, which culminated in earning my Ph.D. in chemistry in 1986.
Your professional path is fascinating. What was a career-defining moment for you?
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- In 1993, I conceived and led the development of the world’s first high-resolution benchtop energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer, the Thermo-BAIRD EX-300. It featured innovative elements like a water-cooled solid-state detector and Windows-based software. That project was funded by the BIRD Foundation and remains one of my proudest contributions to the field of instrumentation.
What are your current professional goals?
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- Right now, my focus is on evolving and refining IXRF Systems’ lines of imaging spectrometers, elemental analyzers, and process analyzers. We’re pushing boundaries to create tools that deliver unmatched performance and precision.
How does IXRF Systems support you in achieving these goals?
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- IXRF provides critical funding for R&D, which allows me and the team to innovate and bring our ideas to life. Having a supportive environment like this is invaluable for achieving our vision.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
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- Swimming is one of my favorite recreational activities. I also love staying up-to-date with all areas of science—it’s a core part of who I am. History, particularly World War II, is another passion of mine, and I enjoy visiting museums dedicated to that era. I’m a member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and the American Chemical Society (ACS), and I still enjoy attending scientific conferences and giving talks on the history of science.
Final thoughts?
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- If you’re curious about IXRF Systems and the innovative work we’re doing, I encourage you to explore more. We’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with microXRF and elemental analysis, and it’s an exciting journey to be a part of!
Want to know more about IXRF Systems and our ground-breaking work? Click here to embark on a journey of discovery and stay informed!
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