Cathal Cummins is an Associate Professor of Mathematics at Heriot-Watt University and the Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences, where he leads the Contraflow research group. His work sits in mathematical fluid mechanics, spanning vortex-dominated flows, interfacial and multiphase phenomena, and wave–structure interaction in coastal and offshore settings.

The group combines mathematical analysis, numerical simulation, and physical modelling to explain counterintuitive flow behaviour and to develop predictive tools for real-world systems.

Cathal has prior industry experience in wave energy and works regularly with companies and public bodies on problems where mathematical insight changes engineering decisions. His work with industry spans marine renewables and environmental flows.

He coordinates consultancy and knowledge exchange through M-DICE and supports colleagues in the mathematical science in their delivery of impact.