Mathematician and clergyman. Born at Logie (Fife), West was educated at St. Andrews University. He remained there as assistant to Nicholas Vilant between 1775 and 1784, writing his Elements of Mathematics and System of Mathematics, as well as teaching two other notable mathematicians; namely James Ivory (1765 - 1842) and John Leslie (1766 - 1832).
For financial reasons, West left Scotland for Jamaica (1784) where, apart from a few visits, he remained for the rest of his life. He became an Anglican Priest and served as Rector of the Parish of St. Thomas at Morant Bay.