About the Project
This PhD project will explore the design of future agile robotics systems. Many modern robots take inspiration from animals, but biological systems are constrained by millions of years of evolution. Animals can only become so fast, so strong, or so efficient before they encounter physical and biological limits. By understanding why animals cannot jump higher, fly further, or run faster, the project will identify opportunities to design robots that exceed these natural boundaries.
The project will focus on hybrid robots that can move on the ground and then transition into the air. These versatile systems could be used in a wide range of applications, including infrastructure inspection, disaster response, maintenance of complex engineering systems, and future space missions such as satellite servicing and decommissioning. The research will also provide valuable insights into how animals move, creating opportunities for collaboration across engineering and biological sciences.
Using advanced simulation environments such as NVIDIA Isaac Sim and MuJoCo, the student will develop and test novel robotic concepts in highly realistic virtual environments. A key feature of the project is that both the robot's physical design and its control system will be optimised together. While most previous research focuses on either the robot's structure or its control strategy, this project will evolve both simultaneously. This approach will help reveal how body design and intelligence interact to produce exceptional locomotion performance.
Simulation results will be validated through experiments using the research team's specialist facilities, including robotics test platforms, microgravity environments, and digital-twin technologies for space robotics.
The student will join a highly experienced team with expertise in robotics, aerospace engineering, and space systems. The team has delivered major research projects funded by organisations including EPSRC, the UK Space Agency, and the European Space Agency. At the start of the PhD, the student will receive focused training in multibody dynamics modelling, mechanical system design and rapid manufacturing, and space-system avionics.
The candidate will gain experience with state-of-the-art robotics tools, publish high-quality research, contribute to open-source software, and engage in outreach activities that inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated student with a backgrounds in aerospace or mechanical engineering robotics, or physics.
This project is expected to start in September 2027.
Before you apply: We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply.
How to apply: To be considered for this project you must complete a formal application through our online application portal. If you already have an applicant account you will directly open an application for PhD School of Engineering Scholarships. If you don't already have an applicant account, please follow the instructions provided.
When applying, please specify the full title and supervisor/s of the project, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You must also upload a Supporting Statement describing the motivation to apply to the project, your CV and transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications. Please note late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status.
We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder.
Eligibility: The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree (or international equivalent) in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering Robotics, or Physics OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master's degree at merit (or international equivalent) in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering Robotics, or Physics.
This project will remain open until filled.
If your application is submitted by 1st November 2026, you can expect a decision by 18th December 2026.
If your application is submitted by 15th January 2027, you can expect a decision by 30th March 2027.
Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project.
Funding Notes
Funding for this project covers tuition fees, UKRI minimum annual stipend (currently £21,805/annum) and up to a £2.5k/annum research training support grant for the full duration of the 3.5-year programme.