Modelling Martial Arts (Ref: CO/RL-SF1/2026)

About the Project

This self-funded research project is in the area of Kinesemiotics, the study of motivated movement. Kinesemiotics is an interdisciplinary research area combining Computer Science, Engineering and Linguistics. Following a successful European project exploring formal modelling of ballet we are looking to broaden the applicability of our research into modelling martial arts. The chosen student would work with an interdisciplinary group of academics at Loughborough, working to define and test an approach to the formal modelling of martial arts practitioners, employing ontological models, linguistic models and motion capture technologies. The output of the research would be designed to assist practitioners in the training of martial arts, and in the preservation of martial arts performances. A strong programming background is preferred. Please note that this position is unfunded, the student in question would be responsible for their tuition fees and living expenses.

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:
Russell Lock r.lock@lboro.ac.uk
www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/compsci/staff/russell-lock/

Entry requirements:
If you have received, or expect to achieve, before starting your PhD programme a first-class honours degree, or a 2:1 honours degree and a masters, or a distinction at master’s level a degree (or the international equivalent) in computer science, or an aligned discipline, we would like to hear from you.

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: October 2026

Start date: April 2026, July 2026, October 2026, January 2027

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

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

How to apply:
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select Computer Science. Please quote the advertised reference number: CO/RL-SF1/2026 in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit a CV and the minimum supporting documents.
The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application. Please note that this criteria is used for both funded and selffunded projects.
Please note, applications for this project are considered on an ongoing basis once submitted and the project may be withdrawn prior to the application deadline, if a suitable candidate is chosen for the project.

Project search terms:
computer science

Email Address Sci:
sci-pgr@lboro.ac.uk