IChemE pays tribute to Professor Mike Hoare FREng FIChemE (1950-2026)
10th August 2026
The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Professor Mike Hoare FREng FIChemE, a pioneering biochemical engineer whose contributions to research, education and industrial practice helped shape the modern bioprocessing sector.
Professor Hoare spent almost five decades at University College London (UCL), where he played a pivotal role in establishing biochemical engineering as a globally recognised discipline. As the founding Head of the UK's first Department of Biochemical Engineering, he helped build one of the world's leading centres for biochemical engineering research, education and industrial collaboration.
His work made internationally recognised contributions to biochemical engineering, particularly in downstream processing and the development of Ultra Scale-Down (USD) technologies. Throughout his career, he combined rigorous engineering science with a commitment to solving real industrial challenges through close collaboration between academia and industry.
A longstanding Fellow of IChemE, Professor Hoare was also highly respected throughout the Institution's biotechnology community and across the wider profession. Through his research and commitment to developing future engineers, he championed the application of engineering principles to biotechnology and bioprocessing.
In recognition of his significant contributions to the field, Professor Hoare received numerous honours, including IChemE’s Donald Medal for Biochemical Engineering and the bioProcessUK Peter Dunnill Award for Outstanding Contribution to UK Bioprocessing.
Yvonne Baker, Chief Executive of IChemE, said: "Professor Hoare’s pioneering contributions to bioprocessing research, his commitment to education, and his ability to bring together academia and industry helped shape a generation of engineers and scientists.
"As a Fellow of IChemE, he embodied the values of professionalism, innovation and service to society. He will be remembered not only for his achievements, but also for his dedication and encouragement to helping engineers develop throughout their careers.”
IChemE extends its condolences to Professor Hoare’s family, friends, colleagues and former students.
What is chemical engineering?
Chemical, biochemical and process engineering is the application of science, mathematics and economics in the process of turning raw materials into everyday, and more specialist, products. Professional chemical engineers design, construct and manage process operations all over the world. Energy, pharmaceuticals, food and drink, synthetic fibres and clean drinking water are just some of the industry sectors and products where chemical engineering plays a central role.
IChemE
The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) advances chemical engineering's contribution for the benefit of society. We facilitate the development of chemical engineering professionals and provide connections to a powerful network of around 32,000 members in more than 100 countries.
We support our members in applying their expertise and experience to make an influential contribution to solving major global challenges, and are the only organisation permitted to award Chartered Chemical Engineer status and Professional Process Safety Engineer registration.