Bioinspired Robot Swarm for Monitoring Tasks

Applications are invited for one doctoral position in robotics at the School of Engineering, University of Aberdeen.

The successful candidate will undertake research focusing on bioinspired swarm robotics for monitoring applications. In bioinspired robotics the abilities of biological systems are investigated to help design robot behaviours that can perform in the unstructured environments biological systems excel in adapting to. Swarm robots are intrinsically bioinspired as their behaviour was modelled on the schooling motion of fish, the synchronized flashing of fireflies, the shape formation of ants or termites.

In particular, swarm robotics can find an optimal application in inspection, monitoring and search and rescue tasks in remote or hard to reach environments. The aim of the project is to combine swarm robotic platforms and machine learning techniques for successful real world applications. Initial work will be based on robot simulation platforms and a Kilobot and Epuck swarm of robots will be available for tests.

This doctoral position will provide extensive opportunities to gain a multidisciplinary outlook through interactions with a wide network of academic and research partners at the School of Engineering, with research expertise ranging from bioengineering to control theory and machine learning.

Candidates should have (or expect to achieve) a UK honours degree at 2.1 or above (or equivalent) in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical, Electronics or Mechanical Engineering, and related fields. A Master’s degree is preferable.

Essential background: Proficiency is required in at least one common programming language (C/C++, C#, Java, Python) along with excellent writing skills and a self-reliant well-organized style of working.

Knowledge of robotic simulation environments will be an advantage.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

• Apply for Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering
• State name of the lead supervisor as the Name of Proposed Supervisor
• State ‘Self-funded’ as Intended Source of Funding
• State the exact project title on the application form

When applying please ensure all required documents are attached:

• All degree certificates and transcripts (Undergraduate AND Postgraduate MSc-officially translated into English where necessary)
• Detailed CV

Informal inquiries can be made to Dr E Giannaccini ([Email Address Removed]), with a copy of your curriculum vitae and cover letter. All general enquiries should be directed to the Postgraduate Research School ([Email Address Removed])