Hidden Electronic Device Detection for Enhanced Digital Forensic Capability (Ref: AAE-LJ-2519)

About the Project

The rise in digital crime means that almost every modern investigation now involves the recovery of electronic evidence. From hidden mobile phones to concealed storage devices, locating and retrieving these items can be critical to criminal investigations, yet current methods rely heavily on time-consuming manual searches. This PhD project will explore innovative approaches for detecting hidden electronic devices using robotic and autonomous ground vehicles. You will investigate advanced sensing technologies and autonomous navigation strategies capable of identifying devices even in complex or obstructed environments, without causing damage to potential evidence.

Working within a multidisciplinary environment, you will have access to cutting-edge robotics and digital forensics expertise, as well as opportunities for collaboration with academic and law enforcement partners. The project offers the chance to make a genuine impact on real-world forensic capability while developing highly sought-after skills in robotics, AI, and digital systems engineering.

If you are passionate about applying advanced engineering and autonomous technologies to tackle pressing societal challenges, this project offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the future of digital forensics.

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:
Lisa Jackson l.m.jackson@lboro.ac.uk

Name of secondary supervisor:
Chengyuan Liu

Entry requirements:
Applicants should hold a First or 2.1 honours degree or MSc in Aeronautical, Automotive, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or Mathematical Sciences - or a related discipline - and possess strong mathematical and analytical skills, ideally with familiarity in autonomous systems and detection methodologies. Experience with programming and simulation tools such as MATLAB, Python, or Simulink is desirable.

English language requirements:
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

Bench fees required: No

Closing date of advert: 30th September 2026

Start date: October 2026

Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years

Fee band: 2025/26 Band RB (UK £5,006, International £28,600)

How to apply:

• Stage 1: You are strongly advised to contact Lisa Jackson in the first instance on l.m.jackson@lboro.ac.uk with a CV, academic transcripts, a reference letter, and confirmation of funding source. Informal discussions are also welcome.
• Stage 2: Following discussion with Lisa Jackson, applicants will be invited to make a formal application at online. Under programme name, select ‘Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering and quote the advert reference number AAE-LJ-2519 in your application

Project search terms:
aerospace engineering, applied mathematics, artificial intelligence, data science, mathematical modelling, autonomous vehicles, control engineering, sensors and detection

Email Address AACME:
aacme.pgr@lboro.ac.uk