Recruit

Call for Postdoctoral Researcher
Duration: 1 year from January 1, 2026 - December 30, 2026 (with possibility of renewal for a second year)
Location: University of California, Davis (in-person)
The Wearable Technology Research Laboratory (WearLab) at UC Davis, Marie Manetti Shrem Institute of Sustainable Design, Fashion and Textiles (ISDFT) invites applications for a fully funded Postdoctoral Researcher position. This is a one-year appointment with the possibility of renewal for a second year, located in-person in Davis, CA.
About ISDFT and WearLab
The Maria Manetti Shrem Institute of Sustainable Design, Fashion and Textiles drives interdisciplinary research and design innovation at the intersection of critical materiality, responsible technology, and social and cultural inclusivity to advance sustainable practices in design, fashion and textiles for regenerative futures.
WearLab specializes in the design and development of next-generation textile based wearable systems, integrating smart textiles, electronic interfaces, and sustainable digital fabrication methods. The lab’s research is published and exhibited internationally in top-tier venues such as ACM and DRS. Our projects emphasize critical engagement with the future of the human–technology–environment relationship, combining theory, design, and engineering. The postdoc will work closely with Prof. Dr. Gozde Goncu-Berk, director of WearLab, and will have opportunities to collaborate across the Departments of Design, Engineering, and related interdisciplinary fields.
Focus Areas
We especially welcome applicants with demonstrated expertise in:
• Digital fabrication of textiles: Digital knitting (design, programming, implementation) as the primary focus area, including CAD embroidery and other advanced manufacturing of smart textiles.
• Electronic textiles and wearable interfaces for health, well-being, and human–environment interaction.
• Interdisciplinary research connecting design with engineering, computing, and human-centered design practices.
• Sustainability-driven design approaches in textiles, materials, and wearable technologies.
Key Responsibilities
• Conduct independent and collaborative research in e-textiles, wearables, and fabrication methods.
• Design, prototype, and evaluate wearable systems and interfaces.
• Publish research results in top-tier venues (e.g., ACM ISWC, CHI, DIS, TEI, DRS).
• Lead ongoing projects while also spearheading new ones based on your unique expertise.
• Contribute to grant writing and proposal development.
• Supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students in WearLab.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to advance sustainability and innovation in wearable design.
• Support day-to-day management and administration, including coordinating projects, assisting with scheduling, and helping organize research activities and events.
Required Qualifications
• Ph.D. degree in Textile Design, Fiber Science and Apparel Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Textile Engineering, or related field. Proof that all PhD requirements have been fulfilled before the start date is required.
• Strong, independent hands-on design and implementation skills in digital fabrication (e.g., digital knitting, CAD embroidery, prototyping).
• Demonstrated expertise in electronic textiles and wearable technology development.
• Solid publication record in relevant international venues.
• Experience in grant writing and interdisciplinary project development.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Strong interest in sustainability and responsible innovation.

Application Instructions
Interested individuals should apply online at https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF07358

1. Cover letter (max 2 pages) detailing your research interests, relevant experience, and motivation.
2. Curriculum Vitae, including publications, projects, awards, and achievements.
3. Research statement (1 page) outlining your vision and proposed research directions
4. Two representative publications
5. Research/Design Portfolio.
6. Contact details for two referees. For questions, please contact ggoncuberk@ucdavis.edu

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