Toby Williams

Toby Williams is a Lecturer in Mechatronics at Loughborough University's Wolfson School, specializing in interdisciplinary systems integration. He co-founded the university spin-out company Aftrak, developing solar-powered agricultural solutions for sub-Saharan Africa.

He holds a PhD (2022) and MEng (2017) in Mechanical Engineering from Loughborough University. His PhD focused on medical mechatronics involving multifrequency electrical impedance tomography for sub-dural haematomas detection.

• Research areas: Mechatronic systems, biomedical engineering, sustainable agriculture tech, and automated manufacturing

Prior roles include Research Fellow/Associate positions (2020–present) across diverse projects: industrial textile dyeing optimization, train cleanliness analysis, wireless EV charging systems, compartment syndrome detection, and automated textile assembly.

Awards & Recognition

• 2023: $1M Milken-Motsepe Green Energy Prize
• 2024: Engineer C2I Grand Prix & Energy/Environment Awards
• 2024: IET Power & Energy Innovation Award
• 2024: Loughborough VC's Collaborative Research Award
• 2024: AgriTech Innovation of the Year (Africa)

Key Projects

Aftrak's solar-powered deep-bed tilling system addresses agricultural challenges in sub-Saharan Africa. His work spans medical device development (cranial haematoma detection systems), sustainable transport infrastructure (wireless EV charging), and industrial automation solutions.