Self-configurable robotic control and navigation in uncertain, unpredictable environments for inspection and maintenance.

To celebrate the University's research successes, the University of Hull is offering a full-time UK/EU/International PhD Scholarship for candidates applying for the following project.

Closing date: - Friday 15th March 2019

Studentships will start on 16th September 2019
Summary of ClusterThe University of Hull is an established institution with a strong track record for exciting and innovative world leading research. Within the Department of Computer Science and Technology we have a strong Artificial Intelligence and Robotics research group with undergraduate programmes in Mechatronics and Robotics. The Department of Computer Science and Technology works closely with a number of partners including Project AURA, a collaboration that brings together low carbon energy and offshore wind.

The scholarships in this cluster, working with research groups in the Department of Computer Science and across the institution, are looking to develop innovation in long-term autonomy and energy management for inspection and maintenance, with research into sustainable long term robotic systems. Including the development of robotic metabolisms for energy conservation and environmental energy gathering.
Summary of PhD ProjectSelf-configurable robotic control and navigation in uncertain, unpredictable environments for inspection and maintenance.

Working in remote, hazardous and uncertain environments poses challenges for robotic navigation and movement. A robot designed with wheels to cover distance, is not very capable of climbing stairs. Indeed, inspecting water tanks, or traversing pipework with restricted access can also be problematic. This project will develop machine learning approaches to navigating uncertain environments. Utilising swam / modular / or configurable robotic technologies we can develop a robot that is able to learn how to navigate and operate in uncertain environments.

The focus of these environments will be energy and sewage supplies for the purpose of inspection and maintenance of equipment and structures in these environments.

For further information, please contact the cluster lead: Professor John Murray ([Email Address Removed])

Applicants should have a 1st class undergraduate degree or Masters level qualification in Computer Science, Engineering or a relevant discipline.

A 2:1 may be considered, if combined with relevant experience..

To apply for these Scholarships please click on the Apply button below.

Full-time UK/EU and International PhD Scholarships will include fees and maintenance (£14,777 in 2018/19) for three years, depending on satisfactory progress.

PhD students at the University of Hull follow modules for research and transferable skills development and gain a Masters level Certificate, or Diploma, in Research Training, in addition to their research degree.

Successful applicants will be informed of the award as soon as possible and by 15th May 2019 at the latest.