Supporting business and industry

The Open University's support for business and industry spans product development research, to business-related support such as better understanding supply chains. Our range of specialists, across a number of academic disciplines, can help you with your real-world industry challenges, and the need for on-going innovation in the workplace. 

Case study: whisky industry - biosensor technology 

Innovative biosensor technology, which could significantly improve the whisky industry production process and offer a competitive advantage, is being explored in an Open University - Scotch Whisky Research Institute collaboration.

The research project has been developed through a Knowledge Transfer Voucher scheme. This provides funding for a short project to solve industry challenges, identify opportunities for further collaboration and develop lasting partnerships. 

Addressing an industry need

Biochemical substances play an important role during the whisky fermentation process. Sample analysis in situ to measure these substances is an unmet industry requirement.

Work to develop a biosensor application has been initiated by Dr Sotiria Psoma from the OU’s School of Engineering and Innovation, and Dr Barry Harrison from the Scotch Whisky Research Institute. 

A short feasibility study is focusing on the “proof of concept” and the subsequent development of a prototype biosensor, to form the design basis of a useful practical instrument to monitor, control and optimise this important whisky production phase.

Importance of whisky industry 

The project's long-term ambition is that the successful outcome could be applied immediately across the whisky industry.

In Scotland the whisky sector employs almost 11,000 people directly and approaching three times that through its supply chain.

The industry accounts for about 75% of Scotland's food and drink exports, and almost a quarter of the UK's. 

Collaboration for success

This multidisciplinary research project requires knowledge and expertise in materials science, biosensor technology, chemical analysis, electronics, microfluidics and three-dimensional printing technology. 

Combined scientific knowledge, expertise and specialised facilities at the OU and Scotch Whisky Research Institute offer a unique framework to contribute to this innovative idea's success.   

In its initial stage, several preliminary investigations have been carried out. Funding is being sought to allow the longer-term continuation of this exciting project.

Additionally we have been involved in other research programmes in the whisky industry, including the development of biosensors to aid product storage, and to contribute to more efficient processes generally.