Your mission
We are a deep-tech startup developing next-generation wearable robotic systems that combine soft actuation and textile-integrated sensing. Our mission is to create adaptive apparel that enhances human movement, health, and performance in everyday and clinical environments.
Operating in stealth mode, we are building a founding technical team to shape breakthrough technology from the ground up.
We are seeking a Scientist specialising in soft robotics and smart textiles to drive research, prototyping, and integration of our textile-embedded actuation and sensing systems.
Key Responsibilities
R&D & Core Technology Development
* Lead research in textile-integrated soft robotics, focusing on compliant actuation and embedded sensing.
* Design, build, and iterate multilayer textile prototypes, including composites, functional textiles, and smart materials.
* Explore and characterise adaptive actuation systems suited for wearable use (e.g., pneumatic, compliant, or shape-changing mechanisms).
* Develop andvalidatesensing concepts (e.g., strain, pressure, EMG, IMU) embedded directly into textile structures.
Integration & System Engineering
* Collaborate with mechanical, electronics, and software teams to integrate:
* Actuation systems
* Textile-based sensors
* Control electronics and algorithms
* Support development of closed-loop wearable systems (sensing to interpretation to actuation).
* Translate human-movement insights into requirements for fit, actuation behaviour, and sensing placement.
Biomechanics, Physiology & Testing
* Conduct body-on tests to evaluate performance, comfort, and mechanics of prototypes.
* Support development of protocols to assess durability, movement response, safety, and long-term behaviour.
* Work with clinical or human-performance partners to refine testing methodologies.
Prototyping & Validation
* Produce prototypes, rigs, and demonstrators to accelerate technology readiness.
* Define material behaviours, failure modes, and performance criteria.
* Contribute to internal documentation, publications, and IP generation.
Strategic Contribution
* Shape long-term technical roadmaps and influence product direction as part of the early founding team.
* Help build lab capabilities, tools, and processes for ongoing R&D.
Your profile
Essential Requirements
* PhD in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, Textile Engineering, ororequivalent industry R&D experience.
* Strong hands-on skills in smart textile fabrication (knitting, weaving, embroidery, lamination, bonding, or textile-integrated electronics).
* Experience with soft actuators (e.g., pneumatic, compliant, or shape-changing mechanisms).
* Ability to translate research into functional prototypes.
* Experience with mechanical characterisation, experimental design, or materials testing.
* A solution-driven mindset and comfort working in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.
* Strong communicationand documentation skills.
Desirable
* Experience with wearable robotic systems, exosuits, or textile-embedded sensors (pressure, strain, EMG, IMU).
* Familiarity with multilayer textile composite construction, bonding, or advanced fabrication techniques.
* Understanding of biomechanics, ergonomics, or human–machine interaction.
* Prior industry or startup experience developing physical products.
* Rapid prototyping, iteration, and user-testing experience.
Why us?
* Competitive salary and benefits package.
* Opportunity to help define foundational technology at a stealth startup at the forefront of robotics.
* Significant scope for growth and leadership as part of the early team.
* Collaborative, mission-driven culture.
* Visa sponsorship for candidates.