"PhD Studentship: Rolls-Royce sponsored PhD scholarship – Computer vision and robot control for performing on-wing repair of aero-engines"

Area: Engineering

Location: UK Other

Closing Date: Wednesday 01 January 2025

Reference: ENG193

The Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (UTC) in Manufacturing and On-Wing Technology at the University of Nottingham is inviting applicants 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 UTC.

This project focuses on the technical needs of Rolls-Royce to develop smart and robotic solutions to enable in-situ/on-wing repair and maintenance of gas turbine engines.

At the Rolls-Royce UTC at the University of Nottingham, we have developed robotic systems capable of navigating crammed and hazardous environments to perform inspection and active operations such as machining. This is driven by the need to complete repair tasks without disassembly of industrial installations. We have developed a series of continuum robots in both short and long versions.

We are currently developing the next generation of continuum robots and other robotic solutions to perform tasks within restrictive environments. This project builds on these research and industrial successes and proposes computer vision and control solutions for automated robotic systems capable of being teleoperated using smart human-machine interfaces.

This is an exciting PhD project that combines academic and industrial challenges, enhancing the student’s ability to tackle complex intellectual and practical aspects of computer vision and robotics.

We are seeking talented candidates with:

• First or upper second class degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Cybernetics, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• First-rate analytical and numerical skills, with a well-rounded academic background.
• Demonstrated ability to develop precision mechatronic systems and algorithms.
• Ability to develop kinematic and/or dynamic analysis of mechanical/robotic systems.
• Ability to implement control and kinematics with hardware-in-the-loop.
• Background with relevant packages (MATLAB, ROS/OpenCV/Python, LabVIEW/C languages).
• A driven, professional, and self-dependent work attitude is essential.
• 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 skills and knowledge in preparation for a high-impact, high-technology research or industrial career.

Funding Notes

The scholarship on offer comprises a tax-free stipend of approximately £19,237 a year, tuition fees paid, and a generous study package. For PhD students wishing to pursue an academic career, the opportunity to participate in teaching activities will be sought.

Interested in this studentship? Applications with a CV, cover letter, and academic transcripts should be sent to Prof. Dragos Axinte. Suitable applicants will be interviewed, and if successful, invited to make a formal application. Do not submit your application via the My Nottingham platform without having contacted our team first.

Please contact the UTC director, Prof. Dragos Axinte, for further information.

Email: dragos.axinte@nottingham.ac.uk

Tel: 0115 951 4117

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and notified.