ACADEMIC PRACTITIONER & RESEARCHER

The University of Manchester

I am Dr Jane Wood, an internationally recognised expert and Lecturer in Textile & Fashion Technology within the Department of Materials at The University of Manchester. With over 18 years of global industry experience working with leading brands across technical textiles, sportswear, and fashion, I bring a unique blend of practical expertise and cutting-edge academic research to my role.

My academic journey began with a BSc (Hons) in Textile Chemistry from the University of Leeds, followed by an MSc in Clothing Product Development from Manchester Metropolitan University and culminating in a PhD in Applied Microbiology where I explored the impact of microbes on novel textiles. This strong scientific foundation supports my interdisciplinary research at the interface of microbiology, sustainable materials, and smart textile innovation.

At Manchester, I lead curriculum development and deliver programmes spanning undergraduate, masters, and doctoral levels—equipping students with both foundational textile technology knowledge and exposure to live industry challenges and emerging innovations. I co-lead the Sustainable Textiles and Apparel Research (STAR) group, mentoring a dynamic community of researchers advancing environmental and technological solutions for the future of fashion.

As a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA), I am dedicated to pioneering inclusive, engaging teaching practices, with a particular interest in virtual learning environments that enhance student experience while maintaining academic excellence.

I work closely with industry through Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, bespoke training, and consultancy, ensuring a strong bridge between academic research and real-world application. I also collaborate with organisations such as the British Textile Machinery Association and City of London Livery Companies to embed textile technology within higher education curricula and promote sector innovation.

Passionate about science communication and STEM outreach, I am a STEM Ambassador committed to inspiring young people—especially girls—to explore the science behind textiles and fashion through workshops, careers talks, and public engagement.

RESEARCH FOCUS

My research sits at the cutting edge of microbiology and textile technology, pioneering the development of next-generation, bio-based materials that will shape the future of sustainable fashion and advanced textiles.

As both principal and co-investigator, I have a proven track record of securing competitive funding from national and international sources, driving impactful projects in sustainable textile technologies, industry collaboration through Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs), and innovative STEM teaching practice.

I co-lead a vibrant, multidisciplinary research group dedicated to embedding bio-based textile innovation within the contemporary fashion industry, pushing the boundaries of sustainable design and material science.

Building on my foundational work in wearable electronics at Manchester Metropolitan University, I remain deeply engaged in smart textile research, including active participation in the Horizon 2020 e-textiles network — contributing to webinars, conferences, and knowledge exchange initiatives.

I collaborate internationally, including partnerships in Vietnam and the USA, focusing on natural dyeing processes and the critical issue of microfibre pollution in the textile supply chain.

As a trusted expert, I regularly review high-value grant applications for UKRI and Horizon Europe, and serve on editorial boards for leading international journals such as The Journal of the Textile Institute, Textile Research Journal, Biofilm, and Cambridge Plastics.

INDUSTRY PROFESSIONAL

With nearly two decades of global industry leadership, I am an expert in textile innovation, driving developments across diverse sectors—from branded children’s apparel to high-performance parachutes, airbags, denim, and bespoke tailoring.

My international career includes strategic roles in China and Morocco, delivering technical fabric solutions to major high street retailers, sports brands, and textile manufacturers worldwide. I drive the connection between industry challenges and breakthrough fabric technologies in both fashion and technical textiles.

I play a pivotal role in the textile industry, guiding innovative research collaborations, steering prominent trade exhibitions, and championing strategic projects that set the direction for textiles.

As a key contributor to the Textiles 2030 sustainability agenda, I am committed to accelerating transformational change within the global textile sector.

In governance, I hold senior leadership positions within The Textile Institute—as Trustee and Honorary Secretary of the international council, and Honorary Secretary and Treasurer for the Manchester and Cheshire section—where I champion professional development and spearhead flagship events like the ‘Textiles and Life’ conference to nurture emerging industry talent. In addition, I sit on the governing board of the Society of Dyers and Colourists, where I actively drive sector-wide innovation and professional development.