Nik Willoughby

Nik Willoughby is a Professor at Heriot-Watt University (HWU), affiliated with the School of Engineering & Physical Sciences and the Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering. He holds a PhD from University College London (1999) and has extensive experience in downstream bioprocessing, protein recovery, and cellular therapies. His research focuses on sustainable bioprocessing, novel separation methods, and valorization of industrial by-products such as malt whisky waste and langoustine shells.

Research Interests:

• Bioprocessing and process development
• Protein and amino acid recovery
• Sustainable biorefineries
• Cellular therapy purification
• Agricultural waste valorization

His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as responsible consumption and production (SDG 12) and life below water (SDG 13). He co-founded Horizon Proteins, a company commercializing whisky by-product protein recovery, and serves as its CTO. He chairs the Scottish Bioeconomy Council, shaping national industrial biotechnology strategies.

Recent research highlights include studies on whisky fermentation kinetics, algal biomass dewatering via microfluidics, and circular biorefinery design for spent grains. His publications span 54 peer-reviewed articles since 1999, emphasizing industrial symbiosis and resource efficiency.