Martin Wood

Sir Martin Wood was a pioneering British engineer and entrepreneur whose innovations fundamentally transformed the field of cryogenics and superconducting magnet technology. Born on 1927-01-19 in Bolton, Lancashire, England, Wood displayed an early fascination with physics and engineering, eventually studying at the University of Manchester where he earned a degree in electrical engineering. In 1959 he co‑founded Oxford Instruments, a modest start‑up that would grow into a world‑leading manufacturer of scientific instruments, most notably superconducting magnets used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners and particle accelerators. Under Wood’s visionary leadership, the company introduced the first commercial superconducting magnet in 1962, a breakthrough that revolutionised medical imaging by enabling clearer, non‑invasive scans of the human body. His commitment to research and development fostered a culture of innovation, leading Oxford Instruments to expand into a diverse portfolio that included vacuum technology, industrial measurement tools, and advanced materials. Throughout his career Wood remained deeply involved in the scientific community, serving on advisory panels for the UK government and receiving numerous honors, including a knighthood in 1990 for services to engineering and industry. He was also a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Institute of Physics, reflecting his broad influence across multiple disciplines. Even after stepping down as chairman, Wood continued to mentor emerging engineers, emphasizing the importance of ethical responsibility and sustainable technology. His legacy endures not only through the continued success of Oxford Instruments but also through the countless medical professionals and researchers who rely daily on the advanced imaging systems his work helped make possible, cementing his status as a true architect of modern scientific instrumentation.