About Us
The Center for Next Generation E-Skin, a collaboration between Heriot-Watt University and the University of Glasgow, is pioneering the development of self-powered wearable technologies through the innovative use of textile-based triboelectric nanogenerators (T-TENGs). With the two universities complementing each other; with Glasgow specialising in tribology and Heriot-Watt in smart wearables, our mission is to revolutionize wearable electronics by eliminating the need for conventional batteries, thus creating sustainable, energy-efficient garments that generate power from movement. By combining expertise in textiles, nanotechnology, electronics, and energy systems, we are developing flexible, durable, and comfortable e-skin fabrics that can be used for real-time health monitoring and other smart wearables. This cross-institutional collaboration brings together world-class researchers and industry partners to accelerate the transition from research to practical commercial applications, with a focus on environmental sustainability and societal impact. Our work is leading the field and is transforming industries like healthcare, sports, and personal well-being, while contributing to the reduction of electronic waste and advancing green technologies.
Our Story
The journey of the Centre for Next Generation E-Skin began with a shared vision among leading experts in textiles, electronics, and energy systems, spearheaded by Prof. George Stylios from Heriot-Watt University, a pioneer in textile and flexible materials, and Prof Daniel Mulvihill from the University of Glasgow a leading expert in tribology and electronics, who founded this initiative. This project is driven by a commitment to advancing wearable technologies for a sustainable future. Key expertise by Dr. Akshaya Aliyana from Heriot-Watt University, a specialist in smart sensor integration, embedded electronics, IoT, and AI; and Dr Danying Yung, who is bringing design aesthetics into our work, and others with essential expertise.
This growing team blends diverse expertise to redefine wearable energy, developing garments that generate power from movement—no batteries needed. With a strong interdisciplinary foundation and a focus on real-world impact, they’re driving innovations in self-powered, sustainable wearables. Crucially, close collaboration with industrial partners ensures these breakthroughs lead to commercially viable products.