Long-term navigation for agriculture robots in changing environments

Project details

This PhD project aims to develop fundamental methods and practical solutions for agriculture robots to navigate various agricultural environments, including crop fields, orchards and polytunnels safely and reliably, and operate across different growing seasons.

It is envisaged that research into resilient Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) based on low-cost vision sensors will be carried out to cope with cluttered and partially changing environments. Agile and safe motion planning for agriculture robots based on a semantic environment representation that can inform the driveable space within dense vegetation will also be investigated.

The PhD student will be based in the Autonomous Systems Laboratory at Loughborough University. The research group has a leading facility in robotics, including multiple robotic platforms, and a strong track record of winning numerous research grants from UKRI and MoD.

As part of this project, the PhD student will also have the chance to work with our industrial partner for the actual deployment of the developed system in real-world applications.

Entry requirements

Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours. To learn the equivalent for your country, please choose it from the drop-down below.

Entry requirements for United Kingdom

Students should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in a relevant subject.

A relevant master's degree and/or experience will be an advantage.

English language requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.

How to apply

All applications should be made online. Under the programme name, select 'Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering'. Please quote the advertised reference number AAE-CL-2117 in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.