The Wolfson School of Engineering at Loughborough University has world-class facilities and state-of-the-art labs designed for the development of sensors for real-world practical applications. In addition, Loughborough is renowned globally for its expertise in sport-related subjects, providing access to innovative on-body simulators and specialised sports monitoring equipment. This combination presents a unique opportunity to apply my sensor technologies in the field of exercise and sports monitoring, where practical, data-driven insights can make a significant impact on performance and health.
Loughborough University provides numerous opportunities that have greatly benefited my PhD research. The access to state-of-the-art facilities, expert guidance and a supportive academic environment has been instrumental in advancing my work. In particular, my supervisor's encouragement to engage in writing papers has greatly enhanced my academic writing style. Additionally, the opportunities for collaboration with other researchers and engagement in various academic and professional development activities have enriched my research experience, allowing me to broaden my knowledge and skills, which has included guest speaker events and seminars.
Throughout my research, I had the privilege of participating in various outreach activities that allowed me to share my work with the wider public. I took part in leading UK exhibitions such as the Royal Society Summer Science, along with social events, competitions and conferences, all of which helped to expand the audience for my research. I collaborated with organisations such as the National Rehabilitation Centre, the Royal Society and the RAEng, as well as worked on joint research projects with other Universities, building a global network of researchers. A highlight of these collaborations was the opportunity to visit Tsinghua University in China because it allowed me to network and form valuable connections across different fields. The support I received throughout my PhD has been invaluable as it has played a key role in honing my research abilities while also shaping my leadership skills, preparing me to become an effective leader in the future.
Beyond supporting the quality of research, the University is committed to the well-being of its researchers because it organises student wellness activities and sessions. The vibrant international student community ensures that you are welcomed and valued, regardless of your background.
My research integrates textiles with nanogenerators to develop smart textiles that harvest energy from body movements while capturing health and motion data. I investigate textile-based energy harvesting, an emerging area within wearable electronics that converts mechanical energy into electrical power. When we were kids, many of us experienced the familiar scientific phenomenon of rubbing a balloon on our heads and watching it attract small pieces of paper, a result of static charges. In my research, I harness this very phenomenon to generate electrical signals.
My research has the potential to revolutionise rehabilitation monitoring on a large scale. With over 1 billion people or roughly one in six people living with disabilities, there is a significant demand for accessible healthcare.*
The increased use of remote healthcare presents a promising solution by enabling patient monitoring at home. My work aims to improve remote monitoring techniques, making rehabilitation more accessible and effective for people around the world.
Existing sensors can be rigid, expensive, battery-dependent and require specialised expertise and labs. Through my research I aim to develop reliable and precise sensors to remotely monitor patients' health and vital signs. These sensors must be comfortable, unobtrusive and capable of operating for long periods without needing recharging.
To achieve this, I am developing special threads that interact with our skin and other threads to generate significant static charges. When integrated into clothing or shoes, these charged threads move with our movements, producing electrical signals that correspond to our actions. Therefore, my research focuses on developing clothing-based sensors that are battery-free, conform to the body’s contours and are virtually unnoticeable to the wearer. These sensors can monitor motion and vital signs while patients remain comfortable at home, wirelessly transmitting data to doctors for remote monitoring. Unlike conventional sensors, these sensors do not require batteries. They continuously generate signals as long as there is movement.
This technology holds great potential for motion and health sensing, offering a sustainable and innovative approach to monitoring our bodies. It could significantly expand healthcare access both in the UK and internationally. By providing a cost-effective and innovative solution, this technology has the capacity to extend healthcare reach, improving the quality of life for countless individuals. With its ability to monitor health remotely and efficiently, it can help bridge gaps in healthcare access, particularly for those with limited resources.
Loughborough offers outstanding research facilities and support which means that you can make full use of the diverse equipment, engineering labs and library resources to advance your work.
The University provides numerous opportunities to broaden your perspective and enhance your research, allowing you to connect with other fields and collaborate with experts.
*World Health Organisation (2023) – News Article: Disability.