Senior Research Fellow (Robotics Living Lab)

Manchester Metropolitan University; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Manchester Metropolitan University seeks a Senior Research Fellow to innovate in robotics for fashion manufacturing. The role includes leading impactful research, collaborating within a dedicated team, and contributing to publications in a creative lab setting that promotes diversity and inclusion.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Mentoring programmes

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Expertise in fashion manufacturing and robotics.
• Track record of research excellence and innovation.
• Experience with automation and advanced technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of quality research in robotics and agile tooling.
• Collaborate in the Fashion Technologies Emergent Research Group.
• Design and deliver research papers and support events.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Strategic thinking

Collaborative mindset

Education

PhD or working towards one

Tools

Robotic systems

Advanced manufacturing technologies

Job description

We are seeking an exceptional Senior Research Fellow to lead the development of high-impact research in robotics and agile tooling within our pioneering Robotics Living Lab at the Manchester Fashion Institute.

This is an exciting opportunity for a creative problem solver with a manufacturing background and strong analytical, strategic, and critical thinking skills to shape a brand-new research area focused on collaborative robotic end effectors and agile tooling for the fashion industry.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and delivery of quality research in robotics and agile tooling, with a focus on practical applications in fashion manufacturing.

• Work collaboratively as part of the Fashion Technologies Emergent Research Group, contributing to research outputs, publications, and events.

• Design and deliver research papers, contribute to conference planning, and support research group activities such as away days.

• Engage in training and development as required for the evolving needs of the project.

About You:

• A strong academic background, with fashion manufacturing expertise and interests in robotics, engineering, and related fields,

• A track record (or clear potential) of research excellence and innovation.

• Experience working with robotic systems, automation, or advanced manufacturing technologies.

• A collaborative mindset with a commitment to interdisciplinary research.

• A PhD (or working towards one with completion expected by 2029) is essential.

This is a rare opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge, cross-sectoral research in a creative and forward-thinking environment. You'll be at the forefront of exploring how robotics can revolutionise fashion production—working within a leading institute that values both innovation and sustainability.

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from local and international communities, particularly those from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.

Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups.

Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to disabled people who apply for the role and meet the essential criteria as listed in the attached Job Description for that vacancy.