Words at Play : Top 10 Favorite British Words, Vol. 1
Definition:
a scientific expert and especially one involved in technological research
Example:
"Brain boffins at University College London have made a major breakthrough in the ongoing effort to bridge the gap between man and machine." Rik Myslewski, The Register, April 11, 2011
About the word:
Boffin dates to 1945. Although its origin remains a mystery, it may have originated as a slang term for scientists engaged in wartime efforts.