Renewable Space Robots (Ref: AACME-24-014)

Electroconductive ‘soft’ materials are showing excellent potential as biosensors and electro-responsive materials that could be used in actuators for soft robotics. Specifically, conductive biologicals-based gels (natural eutectogels and ionogels) offer a solution to challenges such as renewable sourcing, and creation of gels that are not subject to evaporation under the high-vacuum of space. However, the formulations that might be effective have barely been explored or characterised.

Based on preliminary fully-renewable materials created in our lab, we wish to push the boundaries of how they can be applied to develop new electrically-active components.

As part of our team, you will combine high-throughput laboratory experiments with machine learning to gain a broad understanding of property variation between materials, alongside analysis of interactions with functional additives (such as enzymes) and 3D printability. You will use this learning to tailor and 3D print materials for specific functional applications.

As the project is multidisciplinary, training will be provided as required. You will also have a range of opportunities to gain valuable transferrable skills (including through our doctoral college), network with international and industry partners, and be well-set up for a role in either industry, data science or academia at the end of the programme.

94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021

Supervisors

• Primary supervisor: Prof Anna Croft

Entry requirements

Applicants should have at least, or expect to achieve, a 1st or good 2:1 MChem, MEng, or MSci or equivalent in an appropriate scientific discipline including chemistry, physics, computing, biology, or engineering, with a background in and passion for chemical sciences.

You will join a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive research team at Loughborough led by Prof Anna K Croft, with opportunities for collaboration with other internationally leading groups in academia and industry.

English language requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Tuition fees for 2025-26 entry

• UK fee – To be confirmed Full-time degree per annum
• International fee – £28,600 Full-time degree per annum

The successful candidate will also be expected to pay bench fess of £4000.

How to apply

All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select ‘Chemical Engineering’. Please quote the advertised reference number: *AACME-24-014* in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application. Whilst we do not expect a research proposal for this position, we will expect a personal statement.

Informal enquiries can be directed to a.k.croft@lboro.ac.uk. Applications will be reviewed on a regular basis, with successful applicants expected to start as soon as possible. The post will be closed once filled.

Apply now