Dr Derek Hepburn received a degree in Polymer Science and Technology from Napier University, Edinburgh. He thengained a master's in science degree in Polymer Science and Engineering from Manchester University and was conferred a PhD from Manchester Metropolitan University under the supervision of Professor Phil Marshall on the influence of molecular structure on the fracture resistance of PEl00 pipe materials, sponsored by Solvay and Cie.

He has over 35 years' international experience in the polymer industry. He is a European Engineer and is a Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Mining and Minerals. He also sits on the University of Manchester, External Advisory Board for Materials.