The University of Southampton is inviting applications for a Research Fellow position focused on developing sustainable batteries for seamless textile electronics in healthcare applications. This role is part of the prestigious SUSTAIN programme grant aimed at designing safe, non-toxic, flexible, and energy-dense wearable batteries.
Job Overview
| Designation | Research Fellow |
| Research Area | Electrochemistry, Materials Science, Sustainable Batteries & Textile Electronics |
| Location | Highfield Campus, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom |
| Salary | £37,369 to £45,641 per annum |
| Contract Type | Full-time, Fixed-term for 2 years (with potential extension) |
| Closing Date | Monday, 16 November 2026 (11:59 PM UK time) |
| Reference Number | 3526226EB |
Research Area & Background
Flexible batteries integrated into smart textiles hold transformative potential for healthcare monitoring. These wearable power sources can run sensors for continuous physiological tracking (e.g., glucose levels) and power antennas to wirelessly relay critical data to healthcare professionals. The challenge lies in creating devices that are lightweight, deformable, non-toxic, and safe while retaining high energy density.
As part of the SUSTAIN programme grant, this research will replace hazardous organic solvents and salts with non-toxic, lithium-conductive hydrated polymers and specialized polymer fabrics to fabricate deformable and stretchable batteries.
Job Description
- Design, synthesize, and evaluate sustainable, aqueous/hydrated polymer-based lithium batteries.
- Collaborate across interdisciplinary domains with textile designers, printed electronics engineers, wireless communication specialists, and sustainability analysts.
- Contribute to the fabrication and testing of working demonstration prototypes for wearable medical electronics.
- Publish findings in high-impact academic journals and present research outcomes at international conferences.
Eligibility & Qualifications
- A PhD (awarded or imminent) in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related discipline, or equivalent research experience.
- Strong background in electrochemistry, battery technologies, functional polymers, or nanomaterials.
- Demonstrated experience in independent scientific research, data analysis, and laboratory methodologies.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills suitable for an interdisciplinary research team.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply online via the University of Southampton recruitment portal. Please review the detailed Job Description and Person Specification before submitting your application.
For informal enquiries regarding the project, contact Prof. Nuria Garcia-Araez at N.Garcia-Araez@soton.ac.uk.
Application Deadline & Apply Link
Last Date for Apply: Monday, 16 November 2026 (by 23:59 UK time)
Application Link: Apply Online at University of Southampton
