Intelligent Multi-scale Magnetic Robots for Endoluminal Surgical Applications

About the Project

This PhD position is part of the IMMERSE project (Intelligent Magnetic Multi-scale Robotics for Endoluminal Surgical Excellence), an ambitious research programme aiming to develop the next generation of medical robots for minimally invasive surgery.

Modern surgical robots are powerful but still struggle to reach many areas of the human body, especially through narrow and highly curved anatomical pathways. IMMERSE addresses this challenge by developing a new class of soft, flexible robots that can be guided remotely using magnetic fields, allowing them to move safely and precisely inside the body without relying on rigid instruments or complex internal mechanisms.

A key innovation of the project is its multi-scale approach. Instead of relying on a single device, IMMERSE combines robots of different sizes working together: larger robots navigate through the body to reach the target area, while much smaller robots are deployed locally to deliver therapy with high precision. This coordinated system has the potential to enable entirely new treatments for diseases such as colorectal and pancreatic cancer, reducing the need for invasive surgery and improving patient outcomes.

The successful candidate will join the STORM Lab at the University of Leeds and contribute to the design, control, and experimental validation of these robotic systems. Depending on their interests and background, the PhD project may involve developing new robotic devices, creating intelligent control algorithms, or testing the technology in realistic clinical scenarios.

A distinctive feature of this PhD is the close collaboration with ETH Zurich, one of the world’s leading institutions in medical robotics. The student will regularly travel to Zurich to work directly with project partners, gaining hands-on experience in complementary technologies such as micro-robotics and electromagnetic actuation. This international collaboration will provide a unique opportunity to work across two leading research environments, build a strong professional network, and contribute to a globally competitive research programme.

Funding Notes

A highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Studentship, based in the School of Electronic & Electrical Engineering, providing the award of full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant of £21,805 per year for 3.5 years. Training and support will also be provided. This opportunity is open to UK applicants only. All candidates will be placed into the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Studentship Competition and selection is based on academic merit.