Research Associate in Bio-Digital Intelligent Systems

Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering

Full or Part Time, Fixed term with position not extending beyond the project end date of 31 December 2026

Loughborough University is committed to allowing its employees to work dynamically with a combination of working on campus and remotely, where possible.

Join us and be part of a vibrant community at Loughborough University.

Here’s more about the role and what we’re looking for:

The project entails the development, analysis and engineering of advanced bio-digital system solutions for multisectoral applications spanning novel diagnostic technologies for health, sport and wellness, consumer electronics and defence.

Examples of engineered solutions include digital microfluidics and advanced materials for biosensors. The role will involve selecting and optimising material structures, optimising their formulations for device integration, while maintaining optimum device performance, accuracy and reliability.

About the University

Universities are one of this country’s greatest assets. We’re educators, employers, innovators and pioneers. We shape culture and society.

At Loughborough, we strive for better, think differently, challenge convention and take action. We are passionate about finding solutions to the major problems faced by society and the planet, and we create opportunities for those with the drive, the ambition, and the determination to apply themselves in the pursuit of better.

About You

The ideal candidate will have experience in:

• Formulation, optimisation and integration of functional materials.
• Use of analytical equipment in a laboratory environment including morphological (AFM, SEM, TEM), electrical, optical, spectroscopic (Raman, UV/Vis, FTIR) and bio-chemical characterisation.
• Experience working with computational modelling and CAD tools (e.g. Matlab, COMSOL, Abaqus) to assist the design and optimisation tasks.
• Experience of acquiring, curating and analysing data derived from field trials (including human or animal subjects) and analytical techniques.
• Demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated experience working in a lab, including the preparation of risk assessments and COSSH forms to ensure a safe working environment.
• Engaged in translational and/or entrepreneurship programs aiming to exploit research outputs.

Why should you Apply?

With huge amount of variety in the role, there is an opportunity for you to develop and continually grow.

If this sounds like the right place, team and role for you please do get in touch. We’d love to hear from you.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Professor Luigi G. Occhipinti, via email to [email protected] or by telephone to 07889 950970.

For more information refer to the Job Description and Person Specification.

Application Process

For further support with your application, please refer to our application guidance, which includes some top tips to help you when completing your application.

We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process. If there are additional adjustments, you’d like to request please contact Professor Luigi G. Occhipinti. We also offer reasonable adjustments on the job.

Closing Date: 22 June 2026

Our Benefits

At Loughborough, our benefits are designed to support your life inside and outside of work, helping you to thrive and feel valued as part of our community. Examples of our benefits include:

Time off - generous holiday allowance, including 14 university closure days and bank holidays, with the option to buy extra through our holiday purchase scheme.

Where you work - access to a range of fantastic facilities with plenty of green space across our 523-acre East Midlands campus, plus an exciting community at our London campus on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

Financial Wellbeing - competitive pay, two excellent pension schemes, and everyday savings opportunities.

Support for you and those close to you - through our range of life event leave policies as well as access to an on-site nursery at our East Midlands campus, flexible and hybrid working options.

Health and Wellbeing - discounted gym memberships and access to world-class sporting facilities, including physiotherapy, plus healthcare offers such as eyesight testing and wellbeing support.

Travel and sustainability - access to our electric vehicle and cycle-to-work schemes, as well as a variety of travel offers to support sustainable commuting.

Discover more about the full range of rewards and benefits at Loughborough University.