Research Assistant in Novel Materials for Sensing

1000scholars; Loughborough; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working options

Generous holidays

On-site facilities

Job summary

Loughborough University invites applications for a full-time, fixed-term research role investigating low-dimensional materials for new sensing devices. The project runs hybrid: 3 days in office, 2 days remote, with funding until 28 February 2028.

The role involves developing a proof-of-concept device, selecting material structures, and optimizing formulations and fabrication for device integration on electronic substrates.

Qualifications

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience coordinating with multiple stakeholders.
• Analytical skills for data interpretation and modelling.

Responsibilities

• Assist development of a proof-of-concept device prototype.
• Select and optimise material structures for sensors.
• Optimise ink formulations and fabrication for device integration on substrates.

Skills

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Analytical thinking

Risk assessment

Education

Master's degree in related field

Tools

MATLAB

COMSOL

Abaqus

Geant4

Job description

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.

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

• 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 [e-mail] or by telephone on [phone].

Closing Date: 15 October 2026

Our Benefits

We’re committed to creating an environment where you can flourish. You’ll enjoy generous time off, including 14 university closure days and bank holidays, plus a holiday purchase scheme. Other benefits include flexible and hybrid working options, family-friendly support, world-class sporting facilities, and a wide range of financial, health, and sustainability perks. Discover more about our full range of rewards and benefits.

£29,588 to £34,610 per annum. Specialist and Supporting Academic Research Grade 5. Subject to annual pay award.