boffin

[Julian]

(British slang) a scientist or technician engaged in military research

[Sonia]

Boffin is a British slang term for a scientist, engineer, or other person engaged in technical or scientific research and development. A boffin was viewed by some in the regular services as odd, quirky or peculiar, though quite bright and essential to helping in the war effort through having and developing the key ideas leading to transformative military capabilities.

[Dianne]

A boffin is a British term referring to a person engaged in scientific or technical research. This person is usually highly knowledgeable, skilled or intelligent in these fields, and may also be seen as somewhat eccentric or socially awkward.