Dr. Jose Varghese Rajendran is an experienced nano-chemist and medical device researcher, currently a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Galway. He earned his PhD in Chemistry from the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, where he specialized in quantum dot synthesis and near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent materials for biomedical applications. He has held key research roles in both academic and industry settings, including Virtual Sense Global Technologies, where he led the development of non-invasive wearable sensors for breath-based glucose monitoring. Dr. Rajendran also brings regulatory expertise through collaboration with Medidee, advising multiple medical device manufacturers on ISO 10993 compliance and CE/TGA submissions. He has over 20 scientific publications, serves on the editorial board of Publishers, and has secured national and international research funding.

Research Interests

• Development of wearable and non-invasive biosensors for early disease detection

• Optical fiber sensor technology for cardiac biomarkers (e.g., NT-proBNP)

• Nanomaterials for biomedical applications, including NIR/IR quantum dots and composites

• Signal processing and algorithm development for medical devices

• Biocompatibility and ISO 10993 testing of medical devices

• Translational research and digital healthcare tools for rural and underserved populations

• Regulatory science for medical devices and in vitro diagnostics (IVDs)

Teaching Interests

• Nanomaterials and their biomedical applications

• Sensor fabrication and integration into wearable platforms

• Medical device development and regulatory strategy

• Spectroscopy and optical diagnostics in healthcare

• Translational research and innovation in digital health

• Research writing and publication strategies for non-native English speakers

Research Projects

1. Early Warning Optical Fibre Biosensor for NT-proBNP Detection (Marie Curie Fellowship)

• Institution: University of Galway

• Duration: 2025–2027

• Supervisor: Dr. Adnan Elahi Prof Patricia Scully

• Summary: Development of a low-cost, wearable optical fibre biosensor for real-time monitoring of NT-proBNP levels, enabling early detection of heart failure and stroke. The project integrates nanomaterial-based probes, signal processing, and validation in Irish clinical settings. Includes secondments with clinical and commercial partners to accelerate translation into digital healthcare applications.

2. Non-Invasive Wearable Sensors for Breath Glucose Monitoring

• Institution: Virtual Sense Global Technologies Pvt Ltd

• Role: Senior Researcher

• Duration: 2023–2024

• Summary: Designed and developed wearable breath sensors integrated into smartwatches for non-invasive glucose monitoring. Led algorithm development and regulatory strategy, achieving Australian TGA approval. Coordinated sensor calibration, 3D prototyping, and patent enhancement for market readiness.

3. PhD Project – Synthesis and Spectroscopic Analysis of Quantum Dots and Their Composites for Biomedical Imaging

• Institution: University of Johannesburg, South Africa

• Duration: 2018–2022

• Summary: Developed low-toxic, NIR/IR-emitting quantum dots and their nanocomposites with enhanced photostability and biocompatibility for potential biomedical imaging applications. The work focused on core/shell structures, surface functionalization, and encapsulation strategies to improve optical performance and biological compatibility.

4. Synthesis and Crystallographic Studies of Enones and Nitrogen Heterocycles

• Institution: BIIC, Mahatma Gandhi University, India

• Funding: Kerala Startup Mission

• Duration: 2022–2023

• Summary: Investigated the synthesis, structural characterization, and optical properties of enone and nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds. The project aimed at potential applications in optoelectronic devices and sensors.

5. Functionalized SBA-15 for pH-Responsive Drug Delivery

• Institution: Mahatma Gandhi University, India (Master’s Project)

• Duration: 2015–2016

• Summary: Engineered PLA-coated mesoporous silica (SBA-15) functionalized with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane for pH-dependent ibuprofen release. Characterization included FTIR, SEM, EDAX, and XRD. Demonstrated controlled release behavior suitable for targeted drug delivery systems.