Sophie Skach

I'm a trained textile and fashion designer and currently postdoctoral researcher interested in textile sensing and actuation. Other research interests include studying human interaction through the means of textile systems.

I conducted my PhD at Queen Mary University London (2016 - 2021), as part of the Media & Arts Technology Centre for Doctoral Training, and a member of the Cognitive Science Research Group. After completing my PhD, I worked on several projects as a postdoctoral researcher and designer. Amongst the host institutions are the University of Arts Berlin (2021), and the University of Arts Iceland (2023). 

My research in soft robotics began with a postdoctoral position at the Centre for Advanced Robotics at Queen Mary University of London in Kaspar Althoefer's group in 2021. 

Prior to my research pathway, I worked as a knitwear and menswear designer for international brands such as Swarovski (AT) and Son of a Tailor (DK). As a fashion designer (MA Menswear, London College of Fashion, 2012 - 2014), I have been awarded international prizes and industrial sponsorships, and have showcased my own collections on catwalks during Fashion Weeks in Tokyo, London, New York, Paris, Milan, and Vienna.