Coventry University
Research fellow
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Job Title: Research Fellow
Job Reference: 3709
Application Closing Date: 09/09/2026
Division, Department: Research Division, ArCC Inclusive Design and Wellbeing
Salary: Competitive starting salary range from £38,784.00 up to £42,254.00 per annum (dependent upon experience) with the potential to progress. A discretionary range for candidates with exceptional experience can be discussed/considered.
Mode: Part Time, Fixed Term until 31st May 2028
Our Mission
Coventry University is a global Education Group that empowers students and communities to transform their lives and society through teaching, learning, research, and enterprise.
An ambitious and innovative university, our research is designed to have real-world impact on society and tackle global challenges through our 13 challenge-led, interdisciplinary research centres. We enable high-performing research teams and future research leaders to thrive and make an impact locally, regionally, nationally, and globally.
The Role
Coventry University is seeking a Research Fellow in Design for Health to join our vibrant and interdisciplinary research community.
The successful candidate will be based in the Centre for Arts and Creative Cultures (ArCC) and work closely with colleagues in the Centre for Manufacturing and Materials (CMM). This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to high-impact, collaborative research at the intersection of design, health, and advanced materials.
About the Project
The role will contribute to the STAND (Sensing Textiles Enabled with Advanced Novel Materials for Diabetic Foot Care) project, a Horizon Europe-funded project (HORIZON-CL4-2025-03-MATERIALS-47) led by Coventry University. The project brings together leading partners from across Europe to develop an innovative “Smart Sock” for the early detection and prevention of diabetic foot complications.
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Diabetic foot syndrome is a significant global health challenge. STAND aims to address this through a wearable system capable of continuously monitoring indicators such as pressure, temperature, and humidity, enabling early risk detection and timely intervention.
A strong human-centred design approach, led by ArCC, will ensure the technology is developed in close collaboration with users and healthcare professionals to maximise usability, acceptance, and real-world impact.
Role Overview
The role will play a key role in shaping the design, comfort, usability, and acceptability of the Smart Sock. The work will include:
- Conducting qualitative user research (e.g. interviews)
- Designing and facilitating co-design workshops with patients and clinicians
- Developing design concepts, mock-ups, and prototypes
- Leading user testing and evaluation activities
- Contributing to research outputs and impact activities.
Qualifications Required
PhD (or equivalent) or professional experience equivalent to a PhD demonstrating an ability to carry out independent research with a 1st Class/2.1 Degree in a design related subject.
Our Successful Candidate
A highly motivated and experienced Research Fellow with demonstrable expert knowledge and understanding of design, including experience contributing to the innovation and development of the field.
We are looking for a creative researcher with:
- A strong commitment to co-creation and user-centred design
- Experience in qualitative and/or design research methods
- A strong portfolio demonstrating ideation, prototyping, and user testing
- Interest or experience in health, wellbeing, or medical design
- Ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary and international teams
- Understanding and application of research ethics and data management practices
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Our successful candidate will demonstrate excellent, high-quality publications in high-profile peer-reviewed journals and present at national/international events. You will be committed to working collaboratively on research development, delivery, and dissemination, including interdisciplinary or cross-disciplinary research, public engagement, and knowledge exchange.
The Benefits
As a staff member of Coventry University, you will have access to a wide range of industry-leading rewards and benefits, which includes:
- Excellent Employers Pension Contribution
- 30 days Annual leave plus Bank Holidays
- New Holiday Purchase Scheme up to 5 additional days
- Life Assurance 4x Salary
- BUPA Cash Plan
- 50% off Tuition Fees for staff dependants
- CU Reward Scheme – Discounts across a range of High Street/Online Retailers
- Cycle To Work scheme
Our Culture
As a global Education Group, equality, diversity, and inclusion are embedded within the fabric of our organisation and are a key focus of our core values. We harness the power and potential of the diverse cultures, backgrounds, abilities, and experiences of our students, colleagues, and partners to create opportunities for all.
Full Job Description & Person Specification
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