Rolls Royce sponsored PhD scholarship – Innovative design/control of robotic systems for in-situ repair of gas turbine engines

Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (UTC) in Manufacturing, The University of Nottingham

Applications are invited to undertake a 3 year PhD programme in partnership with industry to address key challenges in on-platform manufacturing engineering. The successful candidate will be based at the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (UTC) in Manufacturing Technology at The University of Nottingham. Having state-of-the-art purpose built facilities; the UTC offers a world-class environment for the realisation of high impact research projects.

We are seeking applicants for an anticipated September 2016 start on a project with Rolls Royce plc.

This project is in relation to the technical needs of Rolls-Royce to develop automatic and hybrid tooling solutions to enable in-situ/on-wing repair and maintenance of gas turbine engines. In recent years, Rolls-Royce UTC at University of Nottingham has developed a unique activity of developing miniature machine tools (Free-leg hexapod) and continuum (snake arm) robots capable to perform complex multi-axis machining operations in-situ large/intricate installations of high-value industries (nuclear, aerospace, offshore).
This project builds on these research/industrial successes and proposes design/control solutions for automated robotic systems capable to be teleoperated using smart human-machine interface devices.

This is an exciting PhD project that has a unique combination of academic and industrial challenges which will enhance the student’s ability to tackle complex intellectual and practical aspects of mechatronics/mechanical and manufacturing engineering.

We are seeking talented candidates with:

• First or upper second class degree in mechatronics/robotics/cybernetics/mechanical/manufacturing or related scientific discipline.
• First rate analytical and numerical skills, with a well rounded academic background.
• Demonstrated ability to develop mechatronics/precision mechanical devices
• Ability to develop kinematic and/or dynamic analysis of mechanical/robotic systems
• Ability to simulate of complex mechatronics and to use finite element modelling
• Ability to implement control and kinematics with hardware - in- the – loop
• Background with relevant packages, e.g. Matlab, C++, LabView
• A driven, professional and self-dependent work attitude is essential for the successful candidate
• Experience of working within industry will be an advantage
• The ability to produce high quality presentations and written reports

This is an excellent opportunity to work on a novel robotic system with strong links to industrial applications and key kills and knowledge in preparation for a high-impact, high-technology research or industrial career.

The scholarship on offer (to eligible students) comprises a tax-free stipend of £14,296 a year, tuition fees paid and a generous study package (e.g. research consumables, travel budget and industrial training when appropriate).

• A generous fully-funded 3 year doctorate programme, that integrates an industry based doctoral research project with research training in technical subjects and interdisciplinary skills.

• Supervision from international leaders in robotics for in-situ processing technologies.

Eligibility: Only UK Higher Education “Home Fee” status applicants and EU residents satisfying the three-year residency requirement are eligible.

Please contact the UTC director for further information.
UTC director: Prof. Dragos Axinte
Email: [Email Address Removed]
Tel: 011595 14117

Deadline: Until the position is filled