Professor Smith explains how fluorescence emission from a molecule can be used to interrogate the surrounding environment and hence how sensors based on fluorescence can be developed for a wide range of applications. For more than 30 years, she has been involved in the research of optical-based sensing technologies and has published widely in this area with a particular interest in fluorescence-based sensors applicable to industrial applications. She said: “Fluorescence-based sensing technologies have widespread application, therefore an understanding of how these sensors work and the potential benefits for industry is important.”