Research Assistant in Novel Materials for Sensing, Loughborough

Job Title: Research Assistant in Novel Materials for Sensing, LoughboroughApplication Closing Date: Thursday, 15 October 2026Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering Full Time, Fixed Term (subject to funding, available until 28 February 2028 in the first instance) Hybrid: 3 days in the office and 2 days remote Join us and be part of a vibrant community at Loughborough University. Heres more about the role and what were looking for: The project entails the investigation on the use of low-dimensional materials to develop new sensing devices. The overarching objective is to generate new sensing concepts that operate in the region of the electro-magnetic (EM) spectrum spanning from the X-ray to visible wavebands. The aim is to exploit novel materials to develop sensors with new and/or enhanced functionality and hence greater capability compared to existing systems for situational awareness and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance applications. The role will involve assisting in the development of a proof-of-concept device prototype, selecting and optimising material structures, optimising ink formulations and fabrication process, for device integration on passive and active electronic substrates. Key Requirements: The ideal candidate will have: Some experience in formulation, optimisation and integration of functional materials for sensing applications, design and development of lab prototypes, equipment setup, testbench and functional demonstrators of new device concepts. Some experience in the use of analytical equipment in a laboratory environment including morphological (AFM, SEM, TEM), electrical, optical, spectroscopic (Raman, UV/Vis, FTIR) and chemical characterisation. Some experience in working with computational modelling and CAD tools (e.g. MATLAB, COMSOL, Abaqus, Geant4) to assist the design and optimisation tasks. Some experience in acquiring, curating and analysing data derived from experiments and analytical techniques. Demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills Experience working in a lab, including the preparation of risk assessment and COSSH forms to ensure a safe working environment. Experience in working with various stakeholders, including industry and defence. Have a Master’s degree on a related subject, or equivalent experience Informal enquiries should be directed to Prof Luigi G. Occhipinti, Principal Investigator by email at L.G.Occhipinti@lboro.ac.uk or by telephone on +44 (0) 7548 323462. 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 you feel may support you during the recruitment process. If there are any adjustments that you would like to discuss, please contact Prof. Luigi G. Occhipinti. For more information refer to the Job Description and Person Specification. Closing Date: 15 October 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 your family on-site nursery at our East Midlands campus, flexible and hybrid working options, and a range of family-friendly policies 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.…