Research Associate in Commercialisation of Functional Textiles

Economics Network; Loughborough; Hybrid; GBP 32,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working

Hybrid work

14 university closure days + bank hols

Job summary

Loughborough University seeks a motivated research associate to accelerate the commercialisation and translation of the HAPY-Tex technology. You will engage with customers and industry partners to validate market needs and inform future development within a UKRI Proof of Concept project.

The role involves market validation, value proposition development, and route-to-market analysis. The Department of Materials focuses on sustainability, energy tech, and manufacturing innovation, offering a

Qualifications

• Passionate about turning research into real-world impact.
• Commercially aware with strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Self-motivated, entrepreneurial and able to manage projects independently.

Responsibilities

• Accelerate commercialisation and translation of the HAPY-Tex technology.
• Engage with prospective customers, industry stakeholders and partners to understand market needs.
• Validate commercial opportunities and inform future development, adoption and exploitation of the technology.

Job description

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

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

We are looking for a motivated, enthusiastic individual to join our multidisciplinary team as a research associate to accelerate the commercialisation and translation of the HAPY-Tex technology. This includes customer discovery, market validation, value proposition development, business model development, techno-economic assessment, intellectual property evaluation, and route-to-market analysis. Working within a UKRI Proof of Concept project, you will engage with prospective customers, industry stakeholders and partners to better understand market needs, validate commercial opportunities, and inform the future development, adoption and exploitation of the technology.

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 the Department

The Department of Materials is recognised for combining excellent teaching, strong employability outcomes, world-leading research, and modern facilities. Its research and education are particularly focused on sustainability, advanced materials, energy technologies, healthcare applications, and manufacturing innovation.

About You

• Passionate about turning research into real-world impact.
• Commercially aware with strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Self-motivated, entrepreneurial and able to manage projects independently.

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 Dr Fiona Hatton, Department of Materials, via email to [e-mail].

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 [e-mail]. We also offer reasonable adjustments on the job.

Closing Date: 16 November 2026

OurBenefits

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 andbenefits.

From £35,608. Subject to annual pay award.