Smart and Soft Sensors for Space Applications

The Centre for Robotics and Autonomous System at the University of Salford is one of the largest Robotics groups in the UK. It is a key partner in the recently awarded EPSRC Hub in Future AI and Robotics for Space (FAIR-SPACE). Advances in robotics and autonomous systems are changing the way space is explored. As humans extend their reach into space, they will need to rely more and more on robots and artificial intelligence to handle many repetitive tasks. In scientific exploration both manned and unmanned spacecraft will continue to go into Earth orbit as well as further into deep space. Robotics and AI will assist humans to increase what they are able to achieve and to enhance their safety.

Force and position sensing technologies are well established for use on traditional robot arms. However, new robot design approaches (e.g. soft robotics) and new application domains mean these existing sensing technologies often provide insufficient or inappropriate data. This project will develop new sensing technologies for application in space and on the hardware systems being developed within FAIR-SPACE. These new sensors will provide multi-modal sensing data inspired by the human skin which will allow robots to gain a greater understanding of their surroundings and their interactions with it.

A successful candidate will have an academic background in engineering, science or maths. Analytical and programming skills are desirable.

Entry requirements: The standard entry requirement for PhD study is a First or Upper Second class honours degree, or the overseas equivalent, in a relevant subject. In certain circumstances, a Lower Second class honours degree supplemented by a Masters degree, or appropriate relevant work experience, may be acceptable.