Summary
Loughborough University is inviting applications for a Research Associate in Innovative Advanced Materials and Manufacturing within the Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering. This role focuses on the development, analysis, and engineering of low-dimensional functional materials, additive manufacturing, and device integration for applications ranging from wearable health sensors to neuromorphic computing.
Research Associate in Innovative Advanced Materials and Manufacturing, Loughborough University, UK
Designation
- Role: Research Associate in Innovative Advanced Materials and Manufacturing
- Grade: Specialist and Supporting Academic Research (Grade 6)
Key Details at a Glance
| Field | Details |
| Employer | Loughborough University |
| Department | Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering |
| Salary | £35,608 to £46,049 per annum (Subject to annual pay award) |
| Working Hours | Full Time / Part Time |
| Contract Type | Fixed-Term (Until 31 May 2028) |
| Job Reference | REQ260478 |
| Location | Loughborough University, Loughborough (Hybrid) |
| Application Deadline | 23rd August 2026 |
Research Area
Research Area: Development, additive manufacturing, and multisectoral integration of low-dimensional functional materials into flexible, wearable, and neuromorphic devices.
- Low-dimensional functional materials: Quantum dots (0D), Carbon nanotubes & semiconductor nanowires (1D), Graphene & 2D materials, Polymers, and Nanocomposites.
- Additive manufacturing, ink formulations, coating, and non-lithographic techniques for flexible and stretchable substrates.
- Multisectoral device integration: Wearable sensors for health and sport, e-fibres/e-textiles, neuromorphic computing, consumer electronics, and defence.
Location
- Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK (Hybrid working available)
Eligibility / Qualification
- Education: PhD degree (or close to completion) in a related subject, or equivalent experience.
- Core Experience:
- Formulation, optimisation, and integration of functional materials into flexible/wearable substrates.
- Analytical equipment operation for morphological (AFM, SEM, TEM), electrical, optical, spectroscopic (Raman, UV/Vis, FTIR), and chemical characterisation.
- Computational modelling and CAD tools (e.g., MATLAB, COMSOL, Abaqus, Geant4) for design and optimisation.
- Data acquisition, curation, and analysis from field trials (including human or animal subjects).
- Preparation of risk assessments and COSHH forms for laboratory safety.
- Engagement in translational or entrepreneurship programs to exploit research outputs.
- Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Job Description
- Select and optimise low-dimensional material structures for advanced applications.
- Formulate and optimise functional inks for device integration on flexible and stretchable polymeric/textile substrates.
- Utilize additive manufacturing techniques (printing, coating, non-lithographic methods) while maintaining device performance, accuracy, and reliability.
- Conduct morphological, electrical, optical, and spectroscopic characterisations on engineered devices.
- Model and design components using CAD and simulation software to support development.
- Curate and analyse complex data from laboratory and field trials.
How to Apply
- Online Application: Submit your application through the official portal via the jobs.ac.uk Advert Page.
- Informal Enquiries: You can contact Prof. Luigi G. Occhipinti via email at L.G.Occhipinti@lboro.ac.uk or by phone at
+44 (0) 7548 323462.
Last Date to Apply
- 23 August 2026
