The event brought together researchers from across Ireland to explore the latest developments in smart fabrics, wearable technologies and digital health applications.
Researchers from Walton Institute at SETU joined leading academics and industry experts from across Ireland and the UK at the Breaking Ground: The E-Textile & Wearables Seminar, hosted by Tyndall National Institute in Cork on 22 May 2026.
The event brought together researchers from Tyndall National Institute, University of Southampton, SETU and Dublin City University to explore the latest developments in smart fabrics, wearable technologies and digital health applications. Discussions focused on how collaboration between institutions can help accelerate innovation in e-textiles and wearable systems that support healthcare, wellbeing and independent living.
Walton Institute and SETU’s School of Health Science was strongly represented throughout the programme, with four researchers contributing to the event. Dr Frances Cleary presented her work on wearable technologies and smart systems, while Komal Komal shared research exploring modular garment design approaches for people living with epilepsy. Syeda Maryam Hussain presented findings on clothing comfort preferences among autistic children, highlighting the importance of user-centred design in the development of future wearable solutions. Aileen Drohan also attended the seminar, contributing to discussions and networking opportunities with fellow researchers and collaborators.
The seminar showcased a wide range of emerging applications, from self-powered smart textiles and flexible sensors to rehabilitation technologies and biosensors. It also provided an opportunity for researchers to exchange knowledge and identify new collaboration opportunities between institutions working at the forefront of wearable technology research.
Walton Institute continues to advance research in e-textiles, wearable sensing and interactive technologies through its Smart Materials and eTextiles Living Lab, supporting the development of intelligent fabric systems and next-generation healthcare technologies.
Events such as this play an important role in sharing expertise and helping translate innovative ideas into solutions that can deliver real benefits for society and industry.