Viviani Onishi

I am an Assistant Professor in Chemical & Process Engineering (Teaching & Scholarship) at Heriot-Watt University, where I serve as Programme Director for the MSc Global Sustainability Engineering. Previously, I held academic leadership roles at Edinburgh Napier University as Lecturer and Programme Leader in Energy and Environmental Engineering.

My expertise lies in Computer-Aided Process Systems Engineering (PSE), with a research background focused on the modelling, optimisation, and sustainability assessment of advanced energy and process systems. My work spans renewable energy systems, heat and work integration, desalination technologies, hydrogen and low-carbon systems, and the application of mathematical optimisation techniques to complex engineering challenges. I have developed an international research profile through collaborations across the UK, Portugal, Spain, and Brazil, contributing to funded projects, peer-reviewed publications, and interdisciplinary research in sustainable process and energy systems.

Alongside my technical expertise, my academic practice is centred on engineering education, inclusive and student-centred learning, and the development of innovative teaching approaches that prepare future engineers to address global sustainability challenges. My current interests include AI-enhanced engineering education, curriculum innovation, and the integration of sustainability and digital transformation within engineering programmes.

I am a Fellow of Advance HE and a Fellow of the Women’s Engineering Society, reflecting my commitment to excellence in teaching, mentorship, and diversity within engineering education.

My scholarly interests focus on the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) within engineering education, particularly in Chemical and Process Engineering. I am passionate about developing inclusive, student-centred, and future-focused learning environments that enhance student engagement, belonging, and professional development. My current work explores AI-enhanced engineering education, curriculum innovation, authentic assessment, and sustainability-focused teaching practices that prepare future engineers to address complex global challenges. Drawing on my background in Computer-Aided Process Systems Engineering (PSE), I am particularly interested in bridging technical expertise with innovative pedagogical approaches to transform engineering education.