Nigel Hitchin is one of the leading differential geometers in the country. He has played a prominent role in the remarkable interactions between geometry and physics that are now taking place. His work combines a thorough understanding of classical Riemannian and algebraic geometry together with an imaginative use of new ideas and techniques. He has been especially successful in applying Roger Penrose’s twistor theory to a wide range of interesting problems. He has also made important contributions to the geometric study of solitons and geometric aspects of supersymmetry.