My research focuses on the development and optimization of 3D-printed carbon thermoplastic electrochemical sensors. I've worked extensively on understanding how factors like electrode surface treatments, printing speeds, and the use of various carbon allotrope composites can enhance sensor performance. These sensors have significant applications in diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and public health, particularly in detecting counterfeit pharmaceutical products. Sustainability is another key area of my work, as I explore eco-friendly methods for sensor fabrication.

In addition to research, I offer consultancy services, particularly around the creation of devices for the detection of vitamins from blood samples, a critical area for healthcare diagnostics. Furthermore, I collaborate with the University of Kuala Lumpur on projects aimed at improving the detection of counterfeit medications—another important focus given the global rise in falsified pharmaceuticals

His introduction to the field of electrochemical sensors occurred during a project in the final year of his chemistry degree. The project was at the University of Brighton where he worked under Prof Patel, studying the detection of falsified clopidogrel in the presence of excipients using voltammetry.

Rico graduated with an 1st Class Chemistry degree from the University of Brighton in 2020.  Rico has won the Enviromental science impact award poster prize at the analytical research forum 2022